Bihar Government to Launch Culling Drive Against Crop-Destroying Wildlife

The Bihar government announced a drive starting this month to cull Ghodparas (Nilgai) and wild boars in five districts severely affected by these animals. The initiative aims to protect crops from extensive damage, involving coordinated efforts from various departments and village heads. Professional shooters will be engaged for the task.

This month, the Bihar government will start a culling drive targeting Ghodparas, also known as Nilgai, and wild boars in five districts experiencing significant crop damage.

The affected areas include Vaishali, East Champaran, Buxar, Siwan, and Samastipur, with the initiative set to follow 'laid down procedures.'

A strategy, jointly devised by multiple departments, will empower officials to cull up to 50 animals at a time to curb this menace, involving professional shooters and village heads.

The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department's statement revealed that this decision was made during a review chaired by Environment Minister Prem Kumar.

Senior departmental officials highlighted the importance of strategic planning and inter-department collaboration ahead of the drive. Village heads will play a crucial role, ensuring safe execution from killing to burial.

Nearly 3 lakh Nilgai and 67,000 wild boars are reported in these districts, causing widespread crop destruction, road accidents, and human-animal conflicts.

The government offers Rs 50,000 per hectare in compensation to affected farmers, reflecting the severity of the issue and the need for intervention.