Kerala hikes wildlife attack compensation by 50 pc; announces new plan to protect lives

Kerala Hikes Wildlife Attack Compensation by 50 Percent: New Protection Plan Announced Enhanced Financial Support for Victims Indiadailyupdate.com &ndash

Kerala Hikes Wildlife Attack Compensation by 50 Percent: New Protection Plan Announced

Enhanced Financial Support for Victims

Indiadailyupdate.com – Kerala hikes wildlife attack compensation significantly as part of a comprehensive strategy to address growing human-wildlife conflicts across the state. The administration has announced a substantial fifty percent increase in financial assistance for families affected by deadly animal encounters. This important policy adjustment ensures that victims and their dependents receive more adequate support during difficult times following tragic incidents involving wild animals.

Over the past fifteen years, more than one thousand five hundred people have lost their lives to wildlife attacks within Kerala’s boundaries. Currently, bereaved families receive compensation ranging from ten to fourteen lakh rupees when a family member dies in such incidents. The enhanced payout structure reflects the government’s commitment to providing meaningful relief to those who suffer the most severe consequences of these unfortunate encounters.

Forest and Wildlife Minister Shibu Baby John presented this important announcement during a meeting with local body representatives from areas adjacent to forest regions. The gathering, chaired by Local Self-Government Minister K.M. Shaji, focused on developing a collaborative approach involving multiple departments to minimize dangers posed by wild creatures to local communities.

Streamlined Processes and Legislative Changes

To accelerate administrative procedures, officials will now grant No Objection Certificates for agricultural plots bordering forests within three months, provided no legal complications exist. Those found intentionally delaying the process will face appropriate penalties under the new guidelines. As part of the state’s hundred-day initiative, temporary courts known as adalats will convene throughout August to ensure rapid distribution of funds to affected families.

A fresh insurance program specifically targets residents living near forest borders, offering additional financial security against potential losses. Separate sessions will also address minor forest-related disputes more efficiently, reducing the burden on existing judicial mechanisms. These administrative reforms complement the enhanced compensation framework to create a more responsive system for wildlife attack victims.

Minister John highlighted that the central government has conceptually approved modifications to the Wildlife Protection Act. This proposed amendment would reclassify the native monkey from Schedule I to Schedule II status. While Schedule II animals remain protected from poaching and illegal trade, they do not face the strict statutory limitations applied to Schedule I species. This reclassification enables authorities to declare monkeys as vermin in specific areas or during certain periods when populations surge and cause significant crop damage.

The reclassification allows for more flexible management of monkey populations while maintaining essential protections against illegal hunting and trade activities.

Regarding the escalating wild boar challenge, panchayat heads in bordering areas have been appointed as honorary wildlife wardens. These local leaders can now authorize certified hunters to eliminate boars that enter residential zones. When certified hunters are unavailable, local rifle clubs can provide assistance in managing these agricultural pests effectively.

The comprehensive approach demonstrates Kerala’s determination to balance wildlife conservation with community safety. By combining enhanced financial compensation, streamlined administrative processes, and legislative flexibility, the state aims to reduce conflicts and protect both human lives and animal populations in the long term.