Highly placed sources in the Forest Department told Express that the initiative would go a long way in the betterment of the tribal population and in the protection of forests.

“The initiative will help in tackling the problems of wildlife poaching and smuggling better. Another aim is to collect intelligence on terrorist activities in the forests,” they said.

An official said the landmark initiative was also the first of its kind effort to ensure a significant role for the tribal population in conserving forests.

“Their natural love for forests and knowledge about forest routes and animal behaviour give them an edge over outsiders,” he said.

“Moreover the appointments will lead to a healthy relationship between the tribal population and the Forest Department,” he said.

An order issued by the Forest Department said that the candidates would be selected through a special recruitment drive by the Kerala Public Service Commission.

Tribal youths below the age of 50 and living in forest settlements and fringes are eligible to apply. The Department has also prepared a district-wise list of vacancies with Idukki, 220, Palakkad, 120 and Wayanad ,120 topping the list.

The recruits would be imparted three-months training in forest schools and other training centres under the Department.

The preliminary list of applicants will be prepared by a committee headed by the Divisional Forest Officer. The final selection committee, to be chaired by the PSC chairman, will have the Joint Secretary, Forests and Wildlife Department; PCCF (Wildlife); Chief Conservator of Forests and the ST Department director as members.