No risk allowance, ration money despite hazardous encounters; J&K Wildlife Staff employees govt to frame welfare policy, recognise service as essential
John Mohamad Mir
The Wildlife Protection employees of Jammu & Kashmir constitute the frontline force of environmental protection and public safety in the Union Territory. Entrusted with safeguarding wildlife, forests, and wetlands, while simultaneously responding to ever-increasing human–wildlife conflict, these employees perform duties that are hazardous, relentless, and round-the-clock. Despite their indispensable role, they continue to be deprived of rightful service benefits, including the two-and-a-half-day salary, risk allowance, ration money, and other admissible dues.
Wildlife protection duty is not governed by routine office hours. Field staff remain on constant alert, responding at any hour to emergencies involving wild animals entering human habitations, conducting rescue operations, and protecting life and property. Alongside this, officials undertake anti-poaching drives, habitat protection, enforcement of wildlife laws, and the conservation of biodiversity—the green gold of Jammu & Kashmir.
These responsibilities demand physical endurance, mental resilience, and personal sacrifice, often in remote and difficult terrains, under severe weather conditions and with limited logistical support. Encounters with dangerous wild animals such as leopards, bears, and snakes are an everyday reality. Many employees have sustained injuries, and some have even lost their lives in the line of duty. Yet, the absence of a risk allowance for such high-risk assignments remains a matter of grave concern. Equally distressing is the non-payment of ration money, which is crucial for staff deployed for extended periods away from their homes in far-flung areas.
Such denial of basic entitlements undermines the value of their service and sends a discouraging message to those who stand between wildlife and human settlements. A demoralised frontline force ultimately weakens conservation efforts and compromises the timely management of human–wildlife conflict situations.
In the present era, where ecological imbalance and shrinking habitats have intensified human–wildlife conflict, wildlife employees have emerged as first responders and an essential emergency service. Their role is comparable to other uniformed and risk-bearing services, yet their welfare and service conditions remain inadequately addressed.
In view of the above, it is earnestly and respectfully urged that the Higher Authorities and the Government of Jammu & Kashmir take immediate and compassionate cognisance of the genuine grievances of Wildlife Protection employees and ensure:
* Immediate release of the two-and-a-half-day salary and arrears;
* Sanction and disbursement of a risk allowance in recognition of hazardous duty;
* Payment of ration money to field staff;
* Formal recognition of wildlife protection duty as a high-risk, essential service; and
* The framing of a long-term welfare and compensation policy for wildlife employees.
Wildlife Protection employees are the silent sentinels protecting the natural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir while ensuring public safety. Their dedication, courage, and sacrifice deserve respect, security, and fairness—not neglect.
The protection of wildlife and the environment cannot be achieved without the well-being and motivation of those who guard it. It is hoped that the government and concerned authorities will rise to the occasion and take timely, just, and humane action to address these long-pending issues.
jo*************@***il.com