(a) whether the Government propose to launch an awareness programme for the protection of Wildlife in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;
(c) whether forest department is not having adequate number of guards to protect Wildlife in various States; and
(d) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard and for the protection of Wildlife?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)
(a) The Government of India provides financial support to the states on proposals for conservation of wildlife that may include inter-alia awareness generation activities under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Schemes like Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries, Project Tiger and Project Elephant.
(b) Does not arise.
(c) & (d) Vacancies do occur in the ranks of forest guards etc., and delay in filling up of the same may cause weakening of protection of wildlife in the States. The Government of India has requested all the States to take immediate action for filling up the vacancies for protection of forest and wildlife.