The Kerala Forest Department recently announced a significant change, renaming the long-standing ‘forest watcher’ position to ‘forest beat assistant.’ This updated title, formalized through an official order, encompasses all existing watcher roles within the department, including those of reserve watchers and depot watchers.
This decision stems from a persistent request by the Kerala Forest Protective Staff Association, which has consistently advocated for a nomenclature revision. The association emphasized the increasingly complex and crucial duties performed by these frontline personnel, who play an instrumental role in grassroots forest protection and management.
After careful consideration, the proposal for this change received a positive recommendation from the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Administration). This endorsement recognizes the need for a title that accurately represents the expanded scope of the job.
It’s important to note that while the title has been updated, the core responsibilities and nature of the work for these dedicated individuals will remain unchanged. Furthermore, the order explicitly states that this reclassification will not lead to the creation of new positions for tasks like depot or evidence custodianship, ensuring a streamlined transition and focusing on the enhanced recognition of existing roles.