Guwahati: In a move subject to cabinet approval, the Assam Governor has decided to re-engage controversial IFS officer M.K. Yadava as a Special Chief Secretary (Forest) for a period of one year.
Yadava, who served as the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF), retired on Thursday (February 29, 2024).
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However, he will now be brought back as the Special Chief Secretary (Forest) for a period of one year, starting from March 1, 2024.
MK Yadava was accused of illegally diverting 44 hectares of protected forest land for a Commando Battalion headquarters in Barak Valley.
The National Green Tribunal had summoned MK Yadava for allegedly illegally clearing the protected forest for a Commando Battalion headquarters.
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As per the order, Yadava’s remuneration will be based on his pre-retirement salary and allowances, minus his pension. He will not be eligible for additional benefits like GPF, GIS, or other allowances. However, he will be entitled to medical reimbursement as per pre-retirement rules.
The terms and conditions of his re-engagement will be governed by previous orders issued by the Personnel Department.
This decision to re-engage an experienced retired officer comes amidst ongoing efforts by the Assam government to strengthen forest management in the state. Yadava’s expertise and experience are expected to be valuable assets in this endeavor.