The high cost of man-animal conflict

The high cost of man-animal conflict

Article

• AathiraPerinchery talks about several inconsistencies in compensation awarded for man-human wildlife conflict between states.

1. Important facts

According to 2010 to 2015 data by Bengaluru Centre for wildlife studies on man-human conflict shows

• Majority of the States awarded compensation for loss of livestock, human injury and death, due to man-animal conflict. However, only 18 states provided compensation for property damage.
• 22 states provide for compensation for crop loss by man-animal conflict, however still states like Gujarat and Rajasthan do not provide compensation for crop loss.
• There exist numerous inconsistencies in eligibility, application, assessment, implementation and payment procedures across States in giving compensation.
• There are discrepancies in eligibility procedure for filling compensation for loss due to man- animal conflict.

2. Suggestion

• Policies must be standardized across State lines in a manner that are equitable to both citizens and wildlife.