Human-animal conflict in Keralam: Compensation for victims likely to be revised
Sources in Ministry of Agriculture confirm that revised compensation package is likely to be announced after the State-level conclave on human-wildlife conflict to be held at Thiruvambady on September 29
The Keralam government is likely to increase compensation for victims of human-wildlife conflict, according to sources within the Ministry of Agriculture. Crop damage caused by wildlife in the Kozhikode district surpassed ₹1.35 crore in the first eight months of the current year, underscoring the mounting pressure on local farmers.
The revised compensation package may raise the family of a person killed in an attack by an elephant, tiger, leopard or wild buffalo from ₹10 lakh-₹14 lakh to up to ₹21 lakh. Additionally, assistance for injured victims and treatment expenses could also see enhancements. The compensation for families of those killed in wildlife attacks is currently ₹14 lakh.
A five-member expert committee, headed by the Chief Wildlife Warden and including members from the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority and various other departments, will devise guidelines for determining and providing compensation. The committee's formation is part of the United Democratic Front government's 100-day action plan.
The possible increase in compensation comes amid substantial crop losses in Kozhikode, with agriculture department data revealing that ₹1,35,29,000 worth of crops were damaged between January and August 14.
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