Insurance for forest officials in Maoist areas

NEW DELHI - The central government Saturday said that all forest officials working in Maoist affected areas will be brought under insurance cover and will also be given risk allowance.

Speaking at an interaction session with district forest officials from Maoist-affected areas, Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said forest officers were probably the first link of the government with the rebels because they work in remote areas.

“They are the eyes and ears of the government and alert us about any Naxal (Maoist) activity going on within their areas. They will brought under an insurance cover,” he said.

The forest officials also spoke about the problems faced by them in Maoist-affected areas.