Itanagar, April 30, 2026: In a significant step towards modernising forest management and wildlife conservation, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh has introduced advanced thermal drone technology and launched a specialised training programme for frontline forest personnel. The initiative aims to strengthen wildlife monitoring, improve surveillance capabilities, and enhance rescue and protection efforts across the state's vast forested landscapes.
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| Officials and forest personnel attend the launch of a thermal drone initiative and training programme for frontline staff under the Arunachal Pradesh Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department in Itanagar. (Image: facebook.com/MyGovArunachalPradesh) |
The programme, launched by the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, combines cutting-edge drone technology with intensive capacity-building for field staff. As part of the initiative, a week-long hands-on training programme is being conducted by experts from RNR Unmanned Aerial Systems, equipping forest personnel with skills in drone operation, aerial surveillance, data analysis, and real-time monitoring techniques.
Officials said the adoption of thermal drones marks a major advancement in the state's conservation efforts. Unlike conventional monitoring methods, thermal drones can detect heat signatures and operate effectively even in dense forests, difficult terrains, low-light conditions, and remote areas that are otherwise challenging to access.
In the first phase of implementation, five thermal drones have been deployed across some of Arunachal Pradesh's most ecologically significant wildlife habitats. These include Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve, Deomali Forest Division, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Nampong Forest Division, and Itanagar Biological Park.
The drones are expected to significantly improve the department's ability to track wildlife movements, monitor animal behaviour, and detect threats to biodiversity. Authorities believe the technology will play a critical role in identifying illegal activities such as poaching, wildlife trafficking, encroachment, illegal logging, and other forest-related offences.
With the introduction of thermal drones, Arunachal Pradesh has become the third state in India, after Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, to adopt the technology specifically for wildlife monitoring and conservation purposes.
State Forest and Environment Minister Wangki Lowang described the initiative as a transformative step towards scientific and technology-driven forest governance. He said the state is steadily moving towards the adoption of modern tools and innovative solutions for managing forests and wildlife resources.
“The introduction of thermal drones marks a new era in forest management. These technologies will not only strengthen surveillance but also help reduce human-wildlife conflict through early detection and timely intervention,” the minister said.
He added that the use of drones would improve response times during emergencies involving wildlife rescue, forest fires, and illegal activities occurring in remote areas.
Wanglin Lowangdong, Adviser to the Minister, appreciated the support provided by Rajiv Pemmasani and the team of master trainers who assisted the department in implementing the programme. He emphasized the importance of continuous training and technological adaptation to meet emerging conservation challenges.
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Meanwhile, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and CEO of State Authority CAMPA, N. Tam, said the technology would greatly enhance the department's ability to monitor vast forest landscapes. According to him, thermal drones can help detect forest fires at an early stage, provide real-time information from inaccessible areas, and strengthen surveillance against illegal activities.
Officials further stated that the training programme covers multiple aspects of drone deployment, including aerial mapping, habitat assessment, biodiversity monitoring, anti-poaching operations, wildlife rescue missions, encroachment detection, and interpretation of drone-generated data.
The initiative reflects the state's commitment to integrating modern technology with conservation efforts and is expected to significantly improve the protection and management of Arunachal Pradesh's rich biodiversity. With nearly 80 percent of its geographical area under forest cover and home to some of India's most diverse ecosystems, the state is increasingly focusing on innovative solutions to safeguard its natural heritage for future generations.
