Goa Government to Tackle Human-Animal Conflict with Strategic Policy

The Goa government plans to create a human-animal wildlife conflict management policy by learning from models in Kerala and Karnataka. Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane emphasized the urgency of the issue as wildlife intrusions increase. A structural framework will be finalized after discussions with the Chief Minister.

The Goa government is set to develop a comprehensive human-animal wildlife conflict management policy, drawing insights from initiatives implemented in Kerala and Karnataka, according to Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane.

Addressing Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao's query in the assembly, Rane acknowledged the growing incidence of wildlife incursion into human habitats, stressing the importance of maintaining natural ecosystems within forested areas. He indicated plans to establish a dedicated policy aimed at mitigating these conflicts.

Discussions with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will be key to finalizing the policy's framework. Rane assured the house that Goa will examine existing policies from other states and incorporate their best practices. The initiative, backed by a Rs 3.30 crore provision, will include hotspot mapping to address specific issues like the monkey menace.