BENGALURU - In the recently presented state budget, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has outlined a significant, multi-year approach to grapple with the persistent issue of human-animal conflict. The administration is proposing a dedicated human-animal conflict mitigation programme to span the next five years. This initiative comes on the heels of past efforts, which saw approximately ₹1,044 crore allocated over the preceding three years for similar purposes.
The core of this new strategy revolves around proactive measures and enhanced support systems to curb escalating confrontations between humans and wildlife. This includes a substantial increase in ex-gratia compensation for lives lost due to wild animal attacks, now raised from ₹15 lakh to ₹20 lakh. Furthermore, existing and new task forces dedicated to managing elephant and leopard populations are to continue their operations, bolstered by renewed funding.
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Existing Frameworks and Funding
The state’s commitment to tackling this issue is further evidenced by the provision of ₹17 crore for the operational continuity of eight elephant task forces and two leopard task forces. These units, established to monitor and manage wildlife populations in areas prone to conflict, are expected to receive additional resources for personnel and advanced technology. A new task force is slated for formation in Bandipur, with an allocation of ₹10 crore specifically to strengthen these formations.
Broader Environmental Initiatives
Beyond direct conflict mitigation, the budget signals an intent to address the root causes and related environmental concerns. A substantial drive to increase the state's green cover is planned, with a target of planting 213 lakh plants across 28,494 hectares of forest land and an additional 3.5 lakh plants on 1,200 hectares of non-forest area.
The establishment of the Karnataka Forest, Wildlife and Climate Change Mitigation Foundation (KFWCCMF) is another notable announcement. This entity, to be developed in collaboration with corporate bodies and social reformers, aims to confront the broader implications of climate change. Plans are also in motion to extend railway barricading by 150 km over the next two years, a measure designed to prevent elephant intrusions into human settlements.
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Background and Past Incidents
The impetus for these continued and expanded efforts appears to stem from recurring incidents and public pressure. Recent events, such as the deaths of two individuals in Chikkamagaluru within a single week due to elephant attacks, have led to significant public outcry and protests. Over the years, the conflict has claimed numerous lives and resulted in considerable economic losses through crop and livestock damage.
Previous expenditures have funded a range of protective measures, including compensation for damages, the creation of specialised task forces (both for elephants and leopards), installation of railway barricades, trenching, and solar fencing. The establishment of a ‘Wild-elephant Soft Release Centre’ within the Bhadra Tiger Reserve, supported by a ₹20 crore grant, is also part of these ongoing efforts. The Chief Minister has previously urged officials to develop 'long-term solutions' and scientifically analyze the drivers behind animal straying from forest areas, while also emphasizing the need for a humane approach towards affected communities.
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