300 forest workers, cops, BSF to take guard against honey robbers

Kolkata: Security at the entry points to the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve will be stepped up to ensure honey collectors are not robbed of their stocks while returning from the forest. Around 300 personnel from the forest department, along with BSF and police, will stand guard to prevent a repetition of last year’s attacks on honey collectors. Forty-four boat licences were handed to 344 residents on Friday, flagging off the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve honey collection season.

“Honey collectors were attacked and robbed last year most probably by people from across the border. Honey production on the Bangladesh side of the Sundarbans does not always meet the local demand owing to myriad factors. At the same time, the Indian side sees huge production and procurement every year,” said deputy conservator of forests (STR) Justin Jones. “Under Project Golden Honey, we have this time set up check-posts so that we can apprehend the accused before they enter the Indian side. Even if some do manage to sneak in, they will be caught. We are guarding the entry points. Cops and BSF will join forest department teams for patrolling.”The collectors, most of whom have set off for the forest, are apprehensive about the honey quantity, given the lower-than-normal rainfall in the delta this time. “The soil in the Sundarbans is always wet. Adequate rainfall brings down the salinity in the soil, which is traditionally believed to improve the honey’s quality. The villagers believe low rainfall affects both the quality and the quantity of honey. But this needs further research,” said Jones.Climate change took a toll on honey production, said Debabrata Mandal, researcher and environment conservationist. “Kholshe flowers, the nectar of which bees collect, are blooming fewer in number owing to rising temperature. As a result, the quantity of honey produced is affected. Higher temperature will also means fewer bee hives,” he said.

Tiger spotted in Chhattisgarh forests, venturing for past one month

Chhattisgarh forest dept monitors a young tiger in Baloda Bazar after 15-20 years. Uncertain of origin, patrolling teams ensure safety. Villagers warned, night patrolling intensified, with Nova Nature Society aiding awareness in Baloda Bazar range.

Rising temperatures affect milk production by 20-30%

Rising temperatures lead to milk production decline in Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts. Mymul and Chamul report reduced milk procurement, with farmers experiencing a notable 20-30% decrease in production due to drought and heatwaves.

Young Leopard rescued after being hit by vehicle near Turahalli Forest Reserve

A young female leopard near Turahalli Forest Reserve was hit by a vehicle, leading to a temporary traffic halt. Rescuers from PfA Wildlife Hospital saved the 9.5 kg animal, which was released by the Karnataka Forest Department at 9 pm.