Manipur is the first state in the country to have an online monitoring mechanism updating the movements of forest products, informed an elated Awangbow Newmai on Friday.

Newmai, who is the state forest minister, expressed his sentiments while distributing 42 Tablets to the representatives of Forest Beat Offices at a function held under the theme ‘Digital India – establishment of Smart Forest Beat Offices in Manipur’ at the Forest Department Headquarters, Sanjenthong in Imphal.

Minister Awangbow also encouraged the field staffs of the forest department stating that their work is equally important as compared to other officers of the department although the difference lies in the nature and category of the work.

Supporting the officers and staffs of the department, he asked them to continue their good work and assured full cooperation from the Government’s side regarding any issue.

He announced that the department is ready to present in the Cabinet regarding the proposal for 13 months pay and ration money for the field staffs and one-time relaxation for the promotion of Range Officers.

He concluded the officers and staffs of the department to continue their hard work, to present new and innovative ideas so that it helps in serving the people of the State.

Additional chief secretary MH Khan, Principal Chief Conservator of forest K Angami, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest Anurag Bajpai and other department officials also attended the day’s function in Imphal.

Sobhapati Samom is Northeast Now Correspondent in Imphal. He can be reached at: [email protected]