Nilambur: The Kerala government is purportedly continuing to lay off temporary forest watchers above 56. However, the government is reluctant to make fresh appointments. 

Several forest department projects have been halted due to a shortage of watchers. The duties of these temporary workers include the conservation of the forest, accompanying officials, assisting in the post-mortem of dead wild animals, and others.

The government began laying off temporary forest watchers in Nilambur around a year ago. The decision was made in response to an order issued by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) stating that staff above 56 years of age cannot continue in service. The employees complained about the government's move, but no action was taken.

Despite having decades of service, the temporary watchers are not eligible for any benefits like the other government staff. Many receive pay only for 15 to 20 days of work despite working the whole month. Furthermore, it takes up to five to six months for the government to allocate their pay. On average, a temporary watcher gets a monthly pay of Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000.