Ex-Servicemen Rally Against Relocation of Ecological Task Force Companies from Pithoragarh
In a significant demonstration of dissent, former military personnel in Pithoragarh staged a robust protest on Monday against the proposed transfer of two out of four Ecological Task Force (ETF) companies from the Himalayan district to the Aravalli region in Rajasthan. The ex-servicemen, accompanied by family members, gathered at Ramlila Maidan and organized a rally through the town before formally submitting a memorandum to the district administration. This document was specifically addressed to the Union Environment Ministry, urging immediate cancellation of the relocation order.
Employment and Environmental Concerns at the Forefront
The protestors voiced deep concerns over the potential loss of local employment opportunities and the weakening of environmental conservation efforts in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Mayukh Bhatt, President of the ex-servicemen organization, highlighted that the Union Environment Ministry had directed the shifting of the two centrally funded companies before March 31. "This decision would severely impact local employment, as personnel are typically engaged for eight months annually in their native places," Bhatt emphasized.
He further argued that relocating these companies would undermine decades of conservation work in the Himalayas, despite acknowledging the importance of protecting the Aravalli region. "Safeguarding the fragile Himalayan ecosystem is equally critical," Bhatt stated, adding that the agitation would persist until the order is officially revoked.
Historical Context and Operational Details
Providing historical insight, Shyam Vishvkarma, a former junior commissioned officer of the ETF, noted that approximately 450 ex-servicemen are employed across the four companies, with retirement at age 55. "The battalion was specifically created to protect and enhance the Himalayan environment, executing extensive plantation and conservation activities over the past three decades," Vishvkarma explained.
The 130 Battalion of the ETF was originally established in Pithoragarh in 1994, following a recommendation by then Army Chief General B C Joshi, initially with two companies. In 2008, under the tenure of then Chief Minister B C Khanduri, two additional companies were set up. Currently, two companies are funded by the central government, while the other two receive state government support.
Broader Implications and Future Actions
The protest underscores a broader tension between regional employment needs and national environmental priorities. The ex-servicemen stressed that the ETF's presence in Pithoragarh is not only vital for local livelihoods but also for ongoing ecological preservation in the Himalayas. They called for a balanced approach that addresses conservation needs in both the Himalayan and Aravalli regions without compromising local interests.
As the situation develops, the district administration has acknowledged receipt of the memorandum and is expected to forward it to higher authorities. The ex-servicemen remain resolute in their demand for the order's withdrawal, signaling potential for continued demonstrations if their concerns are not addressed promptly.
