Toll-Free Number Launched for Conservation Efforts
TPN, Mangalagiri: To strengthen wildlife conservation efforts, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Forest and Environment, Shri Pawan Kalyan, has announced harsh penalties for wildlife poaching, killing, and smuggling. During a ceremony held at the Mangalagiri camp office, he released a poster created by the Anti-Poaching Cell of the Forest Department and launched a new toll-free number, 18004255909, for reporting wildlife crimes.
Shri Pawan Kalyan emphasized the shared responsibility to protect forests and wildlife, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “the world is one family.” He urged citizens to show compassion toward all forms of life, from animals and trees to smaller creatures like ants and cattle, which have an equal right to inhabit the earth.
In alignment with the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the Minister reinforced that hunting, killing, and trafficking of wild animals are strictly prohibited, and violators will face severe consequences. He applauded the proactive measures of the state’s NDA government, led by Chief Minister Shri Nara Chandrababu Naidu, in protecting wildlife and natural resources. The government has been quick to act on recent incidents, such as the arrest of individuals involved in the killing of a leopard at Kaundinya Sanctuary in Chittoor district, who were apprehended within three days.
Citizens are encouraged to report incidents of wildlife poaching, smuggling, or illegal mining via the toll-free number. Prompt action by the Forest Department officials, led by Special Chief Secretary Mr. Anantaramu and PCCF Mr. Chiranjeev Choudhary, aims to uphold wildlife conservation and forest protection across the state.
Forest officials, including Mr. A.K. Naik, Mr. Saravanan, Mr. Rahul Pandey, and Mrs. Shantipriya Pandey, were present at the event, underscoring the department’s dedication to safeguarding the region’s biodiversity.