Tuning Out Tigers: Farmers' Musical Method in Pilibhit

Farmers near Pilibhit Tiger Reserve use solar-powered sound systems to play loud music, deterring tigers from sugarcane fields during harvest. This unique 'desi jugaad' enhances safety and adds entertainment while mitigating human-animal conflict. Local villages like Jamunia pioneer the method, supported by the forest department's awareness programs.

In an innovative move, farmers near the Mala range of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve have adopted an unusual strategy to protect themselves from tiger attacks during the sugarcane harvest.

By playing loud music on solar-powered sound systems, these farmers have found an effective way to deter tigers from their fields. The constant noise, they believe, keeps wild animals at bay, lowering the risk of sudden encounters in the dense fields.

This 'desi jugaad' not only enhances safety but also adds an element of community entertainment. Forest officials and local pioneers like Krishna Kumar in Jamunia village have played pivotal roles in implementing this method, while the forest department continues to push awareness on safely coexisting with wildlife.

(With inputs from agencies.)