Bengaluru: The Karnataka government will recruit 540 new forest guards to strengthen the state’s Forest Department, Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment Eshwar B. Khandre informed the Legislative Council. He added that 310 forest watchers have already been appointed to fill existing staff gaps.
Compensation for Wildlife Victims
Khandre stated that families of those killed in elephant or tiger attacks receive ₹20 lakh as compensation. In cases of snakebite deaths, families are provided with ₹2 lakh through the Agriculture Department. He stressed that equal support is being extended to all wildlife-related fatalities.
Rise in Human-Wildlife Conflicts
The minister highlighted that Karnataka’s growing wildlife population has increased human-wildlife encounters. To address this, the government has approved a dedicated 32-member elephant task force for Dakshina Kannada district. The team will push elephants back into forests and help capture rogue elephants.
For long-term solutions, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) for elephant corridor and habitat conservation. A team led by Prof. R. Sukumar has already started the study.
Action Over Tigress Poisoning Case
Referring to the recent poisoning of a tigress and four cubs in Male Mahadeshwara Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, Khandre expressed deep regret. He confirmed that cases have been filed under the Wildlife Protection Act against those involved. A deputy range forest officer and others have been suspended over lapses in staff payments, with an inquiry underway.
Measures to Tackle Elephant and Monkey Menace
The minister assured that the government is prioritising railway barricades to reduce elephant-human conflicts, especially in Ramanagara district. Proposals for new elephant camps are also under review. On crop damage by monkeys, Khandre said directions would soon be issued to capture them.
