Sri Vijaya Puram, July 3: The Department of Environment and Forests, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, has conducted a specialised capacity-building workshop to strengthen the technical skills of frontline forest personnel engaged in wildlife rescue, immobilisation, translocation and conflict mitigation across the islands.
The one-day workshop on handling tranquilizing guns was organised at the Biological Park, Chidiyatapu, with the objective of improving operational preparedness and promoting the scientific management of wildlife rescue operations. The programme focused on enhancing the ability of frontline staff to safely handle tranquilization equipment during field operations involving wild animals.
The training brought together officers, Veterinary Compounders, Mahouts and frontline forest personnel representing territorial and wildlife divisions from South Andaman, North Andaman and Middle Andaman districts. The workshop formed part of the department’s efforts to strengthen institutional capacity for wildlife conservation and emergency response.
Inaugurating the programme, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife)-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden Ravi Horo highlighted the need for continuous professional training and wider adoption of scientific techniques in wildlife management. He said modern conservation efforts require field personnel to be equipped with specialised knowledge and advanced equipment to ensure the safety of both wildlife and rescue teams during operations.
The workshop featured technical sessions conducted by expert resource persons from BMR Wildlife Service, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The sessions focused on the scientific handling and application of tranquilizing guns used during wildlife rescue, immobilisation and translocation, while also addressing operational safety during field interventions.
Officials said the training programme was designed to enhance the competence of personnel who are regularly involved in responding to human-wildlife conflict situations and emergency rescue operations. By improving technical knowledge and practical skills, the department aims to strengthen wildlife conservation efforts while ensuring safer handling of wild animals during rescue and rehabilitation activities.
A pamphlet titled “Safe Tranquilization Practices” was also released during the programme by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) along with other dignitaries. Prepared by the Biological Park, Chidiyatapu, the publication has been developed as a practical field guide to assist frontline personnel in the safe and scientific use of tranquilizing equipment during wildlife operations.
The Department stated that strengthening the technical capabilities of field staff remains an important component of wildlife management across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The workshop focused on improving preparedness for rescue, conflict mitigation and conservation-related operations through scientific methods and standardised field practices.
