Arunachal Pradesh has introduced thermal drones to enhance wildlife monitoring and forest surveillance, becoming the third State in India to adopt this technology.

About the Initiative

• Launched by the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Arunachal Pradesh
• Supported by RNR Unmanned Aerial Systems (training partner)
• Includes:
  • Deployment of 5 thermal drones
  • Hands-on training programme for forest personnel
• Areas of Deployment:

• Namdapha National Park and Tiger Reserve
• Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary
• Deomali and Nampong forest divisions
• Itanagar Biological Park

What are Thermal Drones?

• Drones equipped with infrared sensors to detect heat signatures
• Can track animals, humans and activities even in darkness or dense forests
• Useful in difficult terrains and remote areas

Objectives of the Initiative

• Strengthen wildlife monitoring and conservation
• Prevent poaching, wildlife trafficking and encroachment
• Enable early detection of forest fires and human-wildlife conflict
• Improve rescue and habitat assessment operations

Exam Hook

Prelims Question:
Thermal drones used in wildlife monitoring primarily help in:
(a) Increasing forest cover
(b) Detecting heat signatures of animals and activities
(c) Controlling river pollution
(d) Soil conservation

One-line Wrap

Thermal drones mark a new era where technology strengthens conservation and protects wildlife in India’s forests.

SOURCE