Wildlife attacks leave farmers counting losses in Kozhikode
The latest field-level data with the Agriculture department officials reveals that crops worth ₹1,35,29,000 were damaged between January and August 14
Wildlife attacks and crop damage have cost farmers in Kozhikode over ₹1.35 crore in the first eight months of the year, leading to concerns over the impact on agriculture. The Agriculture Department's field-level data reveals that over 72.42 hectares of crops were affected, with banana crops bearing the brunt of the losses. Other affected crops include rubber, coconut, arecanut, and nutmeg.
Farmers organizations have called for the implementation of advanced solutions like artificial intelligence, bio-fencing, and technology-based barriers to protect farms from wildlife attacks. Purameri reported the highest crop loss, with 338 farmers in over 6.19 hectares affected, resulting in an estimated loss of ₹15.23 lakh. Other affected areas include Chathamangalam, Maruthonkara, and Nochad, among others.
The Agriculture Department's decision to convene a State-level conclave in Thiruvambady on September 29 aims to discuss scientific and practical measures to prevent wildlife attacks on agricultural lands, amid wider efforts to develop technology-based solutions for such incidents.
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