New Delhi: Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, announced on Thursday that the Central government has increased the compensation for individuals killed in human-wildlife conflicts to Rs 10 lakh. The move comes as part of the government’s efforts to address the challenges posed by such conflicts and ensure fair compensation for the affected families.
Yadav, accompanied by officials from the wildlife wing of the ministry, is currently in Kerala’s Wayanad to assess the situation following the tragic death of Ajeesh Joseph Panachiyil. The incident, where Panachiyil was allegedly trampled to death by an elephant on February 10, has heightened tensions between citizens and Kerala forest authorities in the district.
According to a release from the ministry, the ex-gratia payment for death or permanent incapacitation resulting from human-wildlife conflict has been increased to Rs 10 lakh. The compensation for grievous injury is set at Rs 2 lakh, while minor injuries will be compensated with Rs 25,000.
In addition to the compensation hike, the Central Government is providing financial assistance to states and union territories for the construction of physical barriers, such as barbed wire fences, solar-powered electric fences, bio-fencing using cactus, and boundary walls. These measures aim to prevent the entry of wild animals into crop fields. While states and union territories have their compensation norms, the Ministry does not collate detailed information on the number of persons injured or lives lost due to wild animal attacks.
Minister Yadav, in his communication, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to supporting the capacity-building of frontline staff and other departments involved in using early warning systems, modern technology, equipment, and tracking systems. The Centre will also facilitate inter-state coordination meetings between southern states to enhance cooperation and collaboration on wildlife issues.
The compensation increase reflects the government’s dedication to addressing the challenges posed by human-wildlife conflicts and providing adequate support to those affected by such incidents.