Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force, Kerala
The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force Kerala oversees general administration & co-ordination of all wings of the Kerala Forest Department, handles all establishment matters relating to members of IFS, oversees the functions of all wings, handles all Policy matters. The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force Kerala shall also have powers to assign any other function to any of the Chief Conservators of Forests as and when it becomes necessary.
Forest Management wing
The Forest Management wing’s diverse responsibilities encompass a vast spectrum of forest protection and management activities. This wing mainly deals with protection of forest wealth. The wing continuously monitors and ensures that prompt action is taken by field offices in the event of illegal activities such as encroachment, logging, poaching etc., thereby safeguarding the forests of Kerala. Beyond monitoring, the wing ensures that all the field formations act as enforcers. Read More
The Wing also monitors and ensures that Forest Fire Prevention and Management is done by the field offices in a timely manner as per existing guidelines and protocols.
The wing also deals with various Acts and Rules other than those specifically dealt within the purview of Wildlife Protection Act. The wing acts as interpreters of various legal frameworks, excluding those specifically related to wildlife, ensuring compliance within forests.
The Forest Management wing takes on the crucial role of managing forest resources. This includes handling allotments of raw materials to wood-based industries/ firms like KPPL, KSBC, WIPL etc., The fixation of selling price of forest produce in accordance with Selling Price Act, revision of Scheduled rates and Seigniorage rates, notification of sales conditions of timber and supply of timber/ poles / sandalwood to sister concerns, temples etc. are also dealt by this wing.
Their responsibilities extend further to overseeing access and activities within forest areas not covered under the Protected Area network. Furthermore, they oversee the functioning of various field formations including Forest Stations and Checkposts, ensuring their functionality and effectiveness.
Sandalwood, regarded as a highly valuable and vulnerable resource, receives dedicated attention from the Forest Management wing. The wing ensures strict monitoring by field units to protect this precious resource from potential threats.
The Forest Management wing handles leases of forest land to Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and other entities, ensuring adherence to relevant legal frameworks.
Duties and functions of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Forest Management)
- Authority in discharging all functions envisaged in the Forest Conservation Act and Environment Protection Act, except that of the Wildlife Act.
- To deal with all matters relating to forest protection in Kerala, in coordination with the Regional CCFs on protection matters.
- Authority to process and issue statutory notifications in Reserving, De-reserving, Forest areas excepting the areas under EFL.
- To deal with matters relating to encroachments in forests in coordination with Regional CCFs.
- Authority to deal with all Court cases relating to Forest areas, notifications, encroachments, regularization of encroachment and under Forest Conservation Act and Environmental Protection and defend the cases on behalf of the Govt. through Advocate General and submission of Counter in Court cases through the Govt.
- Authority to deal with Forest Conservation in conjunction with the Forest Policy of the Government of India as well as Government of Kerala.
- Authority to deal with matters relating to vested forests as per the provisions of the Kerala Private Forests (Vesting & Assignment) Act 1971 and all cases relating to vested forests.
- Authority to allot raw materials to industries.
- Authority to recommend to Govt. to fix and revise the price of forest produce and as per the provisions of the Kerala Forest Produce (Fixing of selling price) Act 1978.
- Authority for performing all functions under Kerala Preservation of Trees Act of 1986.
- Authority to recommend to Govt. to grant lease settle terms and conditions of lease and deal with all matters relating fixation of lease rent, revision of lease rent, realization of lease rent as per the provisions of the Kerala Grants and Lease Act of 1980 and all matters relating to Court cases on leases
- Authority to exercise control over the Timber Sales Depots and auction of timber. The APCCF (P) is the authority to deal with matters relating to timber auctions, issue of notifications and all other allied acts.
- Nodal Officer for dealing all matters relating to Legislature Committee, Committee on Assurance, Environment Committee and Petition Committee.
- To exercise control over the Law Wing of the KFD.
- To undertake all preventive measures in respect of Conservation of Forests through the Regional CCFs and exercise overall control over the Forests of Kerala.
- To take necessary and timely action based on the reports on the Regional CCFs and other crime stoppers/ whistle blowers and Vigilance wing with respect to encroachments, cutting and removal of trees and deal with all illegal crimes committed in Forests.
- Authority for sandal wood protection.
- To carry out all functions as contemplated in the Kerala Forest Act, Forest Policy of India, Kerala Forest Policy with the concurrence of the PCCF wherever necessary as required under rules.
- To do all acts assigned to him by the Govt. / PCCF / APCCF.
- To carry out all functions under the RTI Act under his wing.
- Taking timely action as required in correspondences and submitting of compliance reports will be done by the APCCF (P).
Wildlife Wing
The Wildlife wing, headed by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Kerala stands as the guardian of Kerala’s exceptional natural heritage, with its core function being the effective conservation of wildlife and biodiversity within the State. The Wildlife wing’s responsibilities are multifaceted. The wing ensures that the field functionaries work tirelessly to protect the various species within the State’s diverse ecosystems, ensuring their continued survival and well-being. This encompasses safeguarding their natural habitats, which are crucial for their existence and flourishing. Furthermore, the wing’s efforts extend to broader biodiversity conservation, encompassing the protection and preservation of the rich tapestry of plant, animal, and microbial life that forms the State’s unique natural heritage. Read More
The Wing oversees and ensures that steps are taken by field offices to reduce/mitigate Man-Animal Conflicts
The wing also develops framework and guidelines for issuance of permits for trekking, research, and filming activities, ensuring that they are conducted responsibly and sustainably.
The wing also monitors the implementation of rules and regulations related to captive elephant management.
To sum up, the Wing handles diverse subjects like conservation of biodiversity, management of the Protected Area network, conducting population estimation of wild animals, addressing all aspects of the Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 as amended in 2022, Captive elephant management, mitigation measures to reduce Human- Wildlife interface, Kerala Rules for Payment of compensation to victims of wild animals 1980 as amended from time to time, handling Centrally Sponsored Schemes related to Wildlife management etc.
The duties and functions of the PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden are as follows:
- The PCCF (WL) will function as the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State and will perform all duties and functions of stipulated for the Chief Wildlife Warden as per the provision of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and Amendments made there to
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to prepare and implement PA Management Plan, obtain and issue necessary sanctions.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to create data bank for Wildlife.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to conduct the Wildlife census.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to create necessary data bank of Bio-diversity, Eco-development schemes in the PAs.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to monitor, review and implement progress of the PA Management Plan.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority for implementing National Conservation Projects such as Biosphere Reserve, Project Tiger and Project Elephant.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to coordinate the research on Wildlife Institutions.
- The PCCF (WL) is the authority to liaise with the Govt. of India and R&D Institutions.
- The PCCF (WL) will review the progress of implementation of Wildlife Management scheme, monitor and submit report to Govt. and Govt. of India periodically.
- The PCCF (WL) will deal with all matters relating to payment of compensation for the victims attacked by wildlife and for destruction of properties.
- The PCCF (WL) will also do all functions relating to wildlife under the Bio-diversity Act.
- The PCCF (WL) will carry out all functions which are assigned to him by the Govt. / PCCF / APCCF.
- The PCCF (WL) will carry out functions under RTI Act with respect to his wing.
- Taking timely action as required in correspondences and submitting of compliance reports, those are necessary with respect to the implementation of the scheme as required under various Acts & Rules will be done by the PCCF (WL) with respect to Wildlife wing.
- The PCCF (WL) will frame rules for the maintenance of Captive Elephants.
Finance, Budget & Audit wing
The Finance, Budget & Audit wing is the strategic engine for the Kerala Forest Department (KFD), orchestrating its growth and financial management. This wing fulfils several key responsibilities. It is the Chief Controlling Office (CCO) of the Department and serves as the central point for preparing budget proposals under various schemes and projects of the Department. It spearheads the department’s planning and budgeting processes. This includes crafting five-year plans, outlining future goals and strategies. The Finance, Budget & Audit wing scrutinizes and approves the Annual Plan of Operations of various wings/offices. Read More
As CCO, the wing allocates funds to various sub offices of Kerala Forest Department based on approved budgets. It monitors expenditure and takes necessary actions to ensure that the financial and physical targets are met.
The Finance, Budget & Audit wing plays a vital role in preparation of reports to Government. It prepares monthly progress reports on the Department’s activities. It also monitors revenue collection and takes steps to achieve revenue targets.
Procurement of vehicles, arms and ammunition and its distribution, monitoring the implementation of NABARD- RIDF projects, matters pertaining to Estimates Committee, Public Account Committee, Subject committee and various other committees, Audit paras of the CAG, providing information for various meetings at Government level etc. are handled by this wing.
The Statistics Division, which is a centralized unit, headed by a Deputy Director (Statistics) function under the Finance, Budget & Audit wing. Its responsibilities encompass data collection and compilation through Statistical Assistants across various divisions and circles, forestry data management and finally, reporting and dissemination. This includes the Annual Administration Report, the annual publication “Forest Statistics,” monthly progress reports on implemented schemes, and statistical reports submitted to various government agencies.
Administration Wing
The Administration wing is responsible for general administration within the Forest Department. The wing is headed by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Administration). The Administration wing oversees and manages all service matters, including recruitment, appointment, promotion, transfer and postings, disciplinary actions, pension, payment of travelling allowances, medical claims, and loans and advances for the staff/officers of the Kerala State Forest Service, Kerala State Forest Subordinate Service, Last Grade, and Part-Time Contingent Services. Service matters of special categories of personnel, such as Wildlife Assistants, Deputy Directors of Wildlife Education, and officers and staff on deputation to the Forest Department (except Indian Forest Officers on deputation to and from KFD), are also handled by the Administration wing.
Vigilance & Forest Intelligence wing
The Vigilance Wing was formed to tackle issues such as illegal removal of forest resources, misconduct by officials, and the evaluation of forest regeneration efforts. This wing’s primary goal is to ensure integrity within the department by preventing and investigating corruption and forest-related offences. The wing has two Inspection & Evaluation Circles and nine Flying Squad Divisions under it. It also has a specialized Forest Intelligence Cell under it. Read More
Forest Vigilance Wing takes up cases under various categories for enquiry which includes Nepotism of staff, Causing wrongful loss to Government property or revenue or claim or dues, Making false claim against Government such as false T.A, House Rent etc., Any dishonest or intentionally improper conduct on the part of a departmental officer or abuse of his power, Causing avoidable delay in the disposal of Government business, Misappropriation or misuse of any Government property, Gross negligence or dereliction of duty, Any illegal or improper conduct, Abetment of the above offences, Illicit transport of forest produces, Allegations against department works, Petitions from public, Enquiry into the allegations raised against staff, petitions regarding illicit felling, poaching, ganja cultivation, arrack distillation, encroachment etc. Evaluation of regeneration areas, Surprise checking in offices including check posts, Night patrolling to prevent illegal transportation of forest produces etc. are also taken up by the wing.
Social Forestry wing
The activities as part of the Social Forestry started with the aim of taking the pressure off the forests by providing green cover on lands outside the forests. The wing has 3 Circles and 14 Social Forestry Divisions. Read More
Promoting planting and nurturing trees outside forests is the prime mandate of the Social Forestry wing. The wing is also taking up various other initiatives like Nagaravanam, Vidyavanam, providing incentivization for tree growing, conservation of Sacred Groves, formation of Forestry Clubs and Nature Clubs in Schools and Colleges, organizing and conduct of various programmes as part of the Wildlife Week Celebrations. The field functionaries under the wing takes necessary action on management of Captive Elephants.
The three Social Forestry Extension units at Kollam, Ernakulam and Kozhikkode provides extension activities to raise awareness about the crucial role of forests, wildlife, and nature.
Forestry Information Bureau (FIB), which works under the Social Forestry wing serves as a unit to raise public awareness about the critical role of forests, wildlife, and nature in sustaining humanity. The FIB leverages the power of both print and electronic media to reach a wider audience through extensive publicity campaigns and information dissemination.
Eco-Development & Tribal Welfare Wing
The Eco-Development & Tribal Welfare Wing plays a crucial role in the Kerala Forest Department by promoting Participatory Forest Management (PFM). The wing is headed by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Ecodevelopment & Tribal Welfare). The PFM approach fosters collaboration between the department and local communities to protect forests, conserve biodiversity, and improve the livelihoods of those who depend on them. Read More
The wing monitors the activities related to the following:
VSS (Vana Samrakshana Samithies) and EDC (Eco Development Committees): These grassroots-level institutions are established in territorial forest divisions, where they are known as VSS, and in sanctuaries and national parks, where they are referred to as EDC. They serve as platforms for community engagement and decision-making regarding forest management.
Forest Development Agencies (FDAs): These registered societies act as federations of VSSs and EDCs at the forest division level. They are authorized to receive funds from the central and state governments for implementing afforestation activities, with village eco-development being an integral component of these programs.
The State Forest Development Agency (SFDA), an autonomous apex body of 36 Forest Development Agencies, oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of Participatory Forest Management programs and it functions under the Eco-development and Tribal Welfare Wing. The Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Ecodevelopment & Tribal Welfare) is the Member Secretary of SFDA.
Ecologically Fragile Land (EFL) Wing
The Ecologically Fragile Land (EFL) Wing stands as a crucial guardian for the state’s most sensitive ecosystems. The wing is headed by the Custodian, Ecologically Fragile Land. Established by the Kerala Forest (Vesting and Management of Ecologically Fragile Lands) Act of 2003, this wing plays a pivotal role in safeguarding these lands. They achieve this through a multi-pronged approach, which includes identifying lands as per provisions of the said Act and the relevant Rules, and ensuring their long-term protection. By safeguarding these fragile ecosystems, the EFL Wing significantly contributes to maintaining the State’s ecological balance and conserving its rich biodiversity. These areas often harbor unique plant and animal life, and the EFL Wing’s efforts are crucial for their long-term survival.
Information Technology (IT) Wing
The IT Wing serves as the department’s information powerhouse. Established under the “strengthening sector management” component of the Kerala Forestry Project initially as the Forest Management Information System (FMIS) wing, plays a critical role in empowering KFD personnel with the skills and knowledge to effectively use and manage information technology. This facilitates smooth communication within the department by streamlining information exchange between various units. Additionally, the IT wing actively promotes the integration of information technology, particularly focusing on Database Management Systems (DBMS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and internet connectivity. Their efforts also make key reference datasets, such as updated forest inventories, readily available to authorized KFD users. Read More
Currently, the IT Wing is diligently working on several key initiatives. The IT Wing is engaged in developing end-to-end Software solutions for the various wings as part of improving e-Governance activities and to update geospatial database. The wing also actively works to update the department’s web portal with the latest information, ensuring its accuracy and accessibility. Furthermore, they continue to offer training programs for KFD staff, enhancing their computer and software handling skills, and fostering efficiency in utilizing technology.
Human Resource Development (HRD) Wing
The Human Resource Development (HRD) Wing is responsible for delivering mandatory training programs to various categories of staff within the Kerala Forest Department (KFD). Established as an independent entity on October 4, 2004, through G.O(Rt) No. 411/2004/F&WLD, the HRD Wing plays a pivotal role in enhancing the skills and knowledge of forest personnel at all levels. Read More
The HRD Wing oversees the operations of it’s training institutions, including:
- State Forest Training Institute (SFTI) Arippa
- State Forest Training Institute (SFTI) Walayar
- Forestry Training Centre, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram
The quality of training delivered at these institutes directly impacts the field-level performance of frontline forest staff, ensuring they are well-equipped to address the challenges of modern forestry practices.
In addition to mandatory training programs, the HRD Wing is responsible for conducting a variety of refresher courses, in-service training, and professional development programs for both ministerial and executive staff within the department. These initiatives are designed to equip staff with the latest knowledge and skills necessary to meet emerging challenges in the forestry sector.
The HRD Wing also serves as the Nodal Agency for facilitating specialized training opportunities at premier institutes such as the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Kerala, the Directorate of Forest Education (DFE), Dehradun, and other prominent institutions under the Forest Survey of India and CASFOS.
Additionally, the HRD Wing coordinates and supports Kerala’s participation in the All India Forest Sports Meet, held annually, fostering teamwork and physical fitness among forestry staff.
The HRD Wing is also responsible for the management and maintenance of several key resources, including:
- The State Forest Central Library at Forest Headquarters, Thiruvananthapuram
- The Forest Museum at PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram
- Trainees Hostel, PTP Nagar
All of these facilities function under the administrative oversight of the Conservator of Forests (HRD).
Objectives
- Protection and Management of Reserve Forest and Protected Areas of the Kerala State through trained professionals.
- Capacity building of the Human Resources in the Kerala Forest Department through adequate training and refresher courses.
Duties and functions of the Conservator of Forests (HRD) includes
- Preparation of Training Plan for the KFD
- Preparation of annual training calendar for the Training Institutes as well as Forest Training Centers
- Matters related to induction/refresher courses
- Act as a Nodal Agency for imparting training through external agencies such as IMG, CASFOS, FSI etc.
- Deputation of officers for training within and outside the state
- Preparation of data base of resource persons and availing their services for imparting training
- Maintenance and development of State Forest Training Institutes/Forest Training Centers
- Maintain a data bank on various training programmes conducted and the personnel imparting/yet to be imparted training
- Liaison with various training institutes of the Government of India (GO1)/ Government of Kerala (GOK) and other organizations for effecting improvements in the training
- Developing new schemes for funding training related matters
- Matters relating to Forest Sports and Games
- Maintenance and development of Forest Central Library
- Maintenance and development of Forestry Training Complex, PTP Nagar
- Maintenance and upkeep of Forest Museum PTP Nagar
- Maintenance and upkeep of Trainees Hostel, PTP Nagar
- Co- coordinating survey Training by providing logistics.
Different trainings provided by the HRD Wing
(a) Induction Trainings: –
Imparting 1 year induction training to Beat Forest Officers on forestry related subjects such as forest botany, forest mensuration, forest act and rules, forest survey, forest engineering, wildlife management, Forest Administration, Forest Protection, Social Forestry, Forest Management, Forest Utilization, IT Application, General Silviculture, Soil & Moisture Conservation, PFM etc., through class room sessions, practical sessions and study tours within and outside the state. During the study tours, inputs on the practical aspects of forestry is given top most priority, like dealing with forest offences, silvicultural operations, timber operations and nursery techniques. Physical training parade, exercises and games are part of the curriculum.
(b) In-service Trainings: –
Short term in-service Training courses at the Forestry Training Centre, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram are organized for Assistant Conservator of Forests, Range Forest Officers, Deputy Range Forest Officers/Depot Officers, Section Forest Officers, Beat Forest Officers, Senior/Junior Superintendent/Head Accountant, Personal Assistants/Confidential Assistants, Clerk/Senior Clerk, Drivers etc.
(c) Refresher courses for frontline staff: – Refresher courses for frontline staff are organized at SFTI, Walayar, SFTI, Arippa and Forestry Training Centre, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram
- d) STP Trainings: –
The HRD Wing collaborates with the Institute of Management in Government at its Centres at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode to conduct various trainings as part of the Government of Kerala’s State Training Policy.
Forest Museum, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram
Forest Museum at PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram is managed and maintained by HRD wing,
Forest Central Library, Forest Headquarters:
Forest Central Library in Forest Headquarters, Vazhuthacuad is managed and maintained by HRD wing.
Special Afforestation & Nodal Office Wing
This wing is entrusted with two important functions mainly. Monitoring the implementation of Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and dealing with applications for the issuance of the No Objection Certificate to wood based industrial units. One of the main functions of the Special Afforestation wing is to deal with the applications for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980. The processing of the applications for diversion of forest land submitted by the User Agencies through the Divisional Forest Officer/Wildlife Warden and Conservator of Forests / Chief Conservator of Forests is handled by this wing.
Working Plan & Research Wing
The Kerala Forest Department’s Working Plan & Research Wing serves as the strategic backbone for responsible forest management practices. Dedicated working plan divisions create 10-year Working plans for each Forest Division, outlining sustainable resource use and protection. These plans guide controlled harvesting, conservation efforts, and infrastructure development across all the 25 territorial divisions. Read More
The Forest Resource Survey Cell, under this wing, specialises in evaluating the availability of vital resources like bamboo, reeds, and canes.
Two research divisions, under this wing, conduct silvicultural research, aiming to improve forest management practices. They maintain permanent preservation plots to monitor forest health and test new methods in the field, contributing to improvement in forest management strategies. The research divisions act as a bridge between the department and various research institutions. This collaboration facilitates multi-location trials and ensures the effectiveness of research findings in local contexts, fostering knowledge sharing and innovation in forest management practices.
The Seed Centre at Kerala Forest Research Institute, co-managed by the department and KFRI, plays a critical role in collecting forest seeds and operating the Forest Seed Centre. This ensures a steady supply of certified seeds for planting and regeneration efforts, contributing to the long-term sustainability of forest ecosystems.
Government of Kerala
