India, July 14 -- West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday directed the Forest Department to intensify action against illegal logging and timber smuggling, stressing the need for greater transparency and stronger enforcement.

Addressing the inaugural programme of Forest Week celebrations in Salt Lake, Adhikari said the department should work closely with the police to curb forest-related crimes.

Vacancies to be filled soon

The chief minister acknowledged that the Forest Department faces several operational challenges and instructed the departmental secretary to submit a proposal to improve infrastructure and fill vacant posts.

He announced that recruitment of forest guards will now be conducted through the Police Recruit...