Karnataka has launched the 'Garudakshi' portal for forest protection.
App and Web Portal
In January 2025, Karnataka's Forest Department launched the 'Garudakshi' portal to allow online registration of First Information Report (FIR) cases for forest crimes like encroachments, poaching, and illegal logging.
- The initiative was inaugurated by Eshwar B. Khandre, the Minister of Forests, Ecology, and Environment, and was developed in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) based in Noida (Uttar Pradesh).
Main Point :- (i) The system aims to encourage public involvement in forest conservation, improve case management, and increase efficiency.
(ii) Initially, Garudakshi will be tested as a pilot project in five divisions: Bengaluru Urban Division, Bengaluru Forest Mobile Squad Division, Bhadravati Division, Sirsi Division, and Male Mahadeshwara Wildlife Division.
(iii) Based on feedback and experience from these divisions, the program will be further improved and gradually expanded across the entire state.
About Karnataka
Chief minister: Siddaramaiah
Governor: Thawar Chand Gehlot
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