Panaji: State Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane said that the state government will draft a Human–Wildlife Conflict Management Policy after studying the models adopted by states like Kerala and Karnataka.
He was responding to a question raised by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao on the floor of the House during the ongoing Budget session on Tuesday.
The minister said that his department will formulate a dedicated policy to address the rising incidents of wildlife straying into human habitations. He told the members that the matter will be discussed with Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant to finalise a structural framework.
When Alemao pointed out that states like Karnataka and Kerala have formed similar policies, Rane said that the policies of both states will be studied by the Goa government to learn from the best practices followed by them.
The minister said the Forest Department will formally write to the concerned authorities in both states to obtain their policy documents and study their approach.
He added that the government intends to present a framework for the policy before the end of the ongoing Assembly session.
The Forest Minister said that he understands the seriousness of the issue as wild animals, including panthers, bisons, monkeys and leopards, are entering human habitations.
I know this is a serious issue. It is important for us to create the right ecosystem within forest areas so that wildlife remains within their natural habitat: Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane.
The minister also informed the House that a provision of Rs 3.30 crore has been made to address human–wildlife conflict in the state. He said the Forest Department will conduct mapping of hotspots affected by monkey menace and compile detailed data to help formulate targeted mitigation measures.
