BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 31st July 2025: In a significant step towards addressing the grievances of volunteers combating wild elephant threats, Tribal Welfare Minister and Krishnapur MLA Bikash Debbarma convened a crucial meeting at the Krishnapur Mandal office in Teliamura to listen to their concerns and pledge administrative and financial reforms.
The meeting, attended by 42 volunteers alongside Mandal Vice-President Gopal Das, Khowai District Minority Front President Rashid Mia, and other Mandal leaders, highlighted persistent issues faced by those working in high-risk forest-adjacent areas. Volunteers raised complaints about inadequate remuneration and delayed payments despite their life-risking efforts to safeguard villagers and property.
Recognizing their role, Minister Debbarma stated, “The current government believes in human values. These volunteers are an invaluable asset to both the government and society. We are taking steps to ensure their salaries are timely and reasonable.” He immediately contacted senior Forest Department officials during the meeting, recommending a monthly allowance hike beyond ₹5,000 and pushing for simplified administrative procedures to prevent future salary delays.
Wild elephant attacks have long plagued villages near the Teliamura forest belt. While past administrations failed to take decisive action, the current government’s deployment of trained volunteers marks a shift towards responsive and humane governance. Minister Debbarma’s initiative has been lauded by many as a reflection of the administration’s compassionate approach to community safety and welfare.
