In a major push towards modernizing forest surveillance, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh has introduced high-tech thermal drones to strengthen wildlife monitoring and rescue operations, along with launching a specialized training programme for frontline forest personnel. The initiative, led by the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change Arunachal Pradesh, includes a week-long hands-on training programme conducted by experts from RNR Unmanned Aerial Systems. The training aims to equip field staff with advanced drone operation skills and real-time monitoring capabilities.
In the first phase, five thermal drones have been deployed across key wildlife locations, including Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, Deomali Division, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Nampong Division, and Itanagar Biological Park. These drones are expected to significantly enhance surveillance in dense and inaccessible terrains, enabling authorities to track animal movements and detect illegal activities such as poaching, wildlife trafficking, and encroachment. With this initiative, Arunachal Pradesh becomes the third state in India, after Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, to adopt thermal drone technology for wildlife monitoring.
Forest and Environment Minister Wangki Lowang described the move as the beginning of a “new era” in forest management. He said the government is steadily adopting modern and scientific tools to improve the management of forests and wildlife. Highlighting rising instances of human-wildlife conflict, the minister noted that the technology would allow early detection and timely intervention, reducing risks to both humans and animals. Adviser to the minister Wanglin Lowangdong acknowledged the support of Rajiv Pemmasani and his team of master trainers from RNR Unmanned Aerial Systems, while appreciating the department’s efforts to adopt advanced conservation tools.
PCCF and CEO of State Authority CAMPA, N Tam, praised the Wildlife Wing for adopting drone technology, noting its usefulness in monitoring large forest areas, detecting forest fires early, and strengthening surveillance against illegal activities. Additional PCCF Debendra Dalai highlighted the wide applications of drones, including habitat mapping, biodiversity monitoring, and detection of encroachments. Officials said the training programme will focus on drone operation, data interpretation, and real-time application in wildlife rescue, anti-poaching drives, and habitat assessment.
