Baripada, Dec 19: In a bid to enhance security measures at Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in Mayurbhanj district, the Odisha government has formed a dedicated company of the Armed Police Constabulary.
This decision follows a rise in poaching incidents and attacks on Forest Department personnel within the reserve in recent months.
Satyabrata Sahi, Additional Chief Secretary of the Government of Odisha, communicated the Governor's approval for the creation of a specialized unit in a letter addressed to the relevant authorities.
The letter reads, "I am directed to convey the sanction of the Governor for the creation of one dedicated company of Armed Police Reserve (APR) Force, with 131 posts across various categories in Mayurbhanj district. This is to form a Joint Task Force, which has already been notified, to bolster the protection efforts in Similipal Tiger Reserve."
The newly established APR Force will include one Assistant Commandant, one Armed Inspector, three Armed Assistant Sub-Inspectors, 30 Havildars, three Driver Havildars, 87 Sepoys, and three Drivers.
These posts will be filled according to the provisions of the Orissa Reservation of Vacancies (ORV) Act. This move aims to significantly strengthen the security infrastructure in the region, ensuring better protection for both the wildlife and the Forest Department staff working in the reserve.
