Guwahati, July 1: The Assam government is going to raise a new Special Rhino Protection Force (SRPF) for better protection of the one-horned rhinos in the State, said Forest Minister Pramila Rani Brahma on Saturday. Stating that the government has already started the process of recruitment, she said, “Recently we have published advertisements for recruitment of 90 youths in the force. After initial selection, they will be given necessary training and the whole process is expected to be completed by August this year.” Brahma said one of the main criteria for selection of cadre for the force is that they have to be locals hailing from the fringe areas of Kaziranga tiol park in gaon, Golaghat and Karbi Anglong districts. She said there will be 22 officers for the proposed force who will be appointed on deputation for leading the force. The Minister said the Forest Department has already placed orders for procurement of arms and ammunition for the new force through the State Home Department. (IANS)