TreeTake Network
The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department observed State Forest Martyrs Day with solemn tributes at the Forest Martyrs Stupa in Mangalagiri Eco Park, honouring 25 forest personnel who laid down their lives protecting wildlife, timber reserves, and biodiversity between 1939 and 2026.
Led by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force PV Chalapathi Rao, senior officers, frontline watchers, and family members of fallen staff placed floral wreaths at the memorial column and observed two minutes of silence in recognition of their sacrifice.
Tributes to Frontline Courage and Sacrifice
During the commemorative gathering at Mangalagiri, PV Chalapathi Rao underscored the perilous conditions under which forest beat officers, watchers, and range staff safeguard fragile ecosystems against organised timber smuggling and wildlife poaching.
Addressing the assembled personnel and bereaved families, PV Chalapathi Rao said, "Our frontline staff stand as the first line of defence for Andhra Pradesh's forests, often risking their lives in remote terrain to protect our natural heritage. Remembering their supreme sacrifice strengthens our resolve to uphold forest conservation and ensure the welfare of their families."
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Environment, Forest, Science and Technology Pawan Kalyan also paid homage to the fallen personnel, emphasising the state government's commitment to equipping forest guards with modern safety gear, legal backing, and institutional support.
In his official tribute message, Pawan Kalyan stated, "Forest martyrs who sacrificed their lives while protecting our green wealth and wildlife deserve the highest respect from society. Our government remains committed to standing firmly behind their families and strengthening frontline protection across every forest division."
Remembering IFS Officer Pandillapalli Srinivas
The annual observance marks the death anniversary of Indian Forest Service officer Pandillapalli Srinivas, who was killed in the line of duty on November 10, 1991, while combating sandalwood smuggling and forest crime in the Sathyamangalam forest division, an act of valour for which he was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra.
Parallel memorial ceremonies were also conducted at the Andhra Pradesh State Forest Academy in Rajamahendravaram and across district forest divisions, where officers pledged to intensify anti-poaching patrols, curb red sanders smuggling in the Seshachalam biosphere, and foster community-led forest protection.
Speaking on the legacy of Pandillapalli Srinivas, a senior forest academy official noted, "His courage and integrity continue to inspire every trainee officer entering the forest service today, reminding us that conservation requires both scientific stewardship and unwavering moral courage."
Editor's Note
Commemorating fallen forest personnel carries true meaning when paired with sustained investment in frontline safety, modern surveillance technology, comprehensive medical and life insurance, and swift legal prosecution of forest offenders. Strengthening welfare mechanisms and field equipment across high-risk corridors will ensure that those who safeguard India's forests receive the institutional protection they deserve.
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