With a sharp rise in incidents of wild animal attacks on humans across Maharashtra, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule issued a stern warning to forest officials, stating that any future negligence in handling such cases would result in direct accountability.
The warning was delivered during an emergency meeting held at the Mantralaya, chaired by Forest Minister Ganesh Naik. The meeting was also attended by Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, MLA Parinay Fuke, and senior bureaucrats.
Speaking during the meeting, Bawankule expressed frustration over the inaction of officials despite repeated instructions and availability of funds through District Planning Committees. “If there is a shortage of funds, arrangements will be made immediately. But the lack of seriousness is unacceptable,” he said.
Bawankule directed that a proposal to adopt modern technology to prevent wildlife attacks be submitted to the Chief Secretary’s committee without delay. He also urged forest officials to study global best practices and implement effective technological solutions.
“Compensation Cannot Bring Back Lives” – Ganesh Naik
Forest Minister Ganesh Naik emphasized the human cost of such attacks, stating, “No amount of compensation can bring back a life. If forest areas are inadequate, the Forest Department must acquire nearby open lands. We must also explore whether wild animals can be relocated to private wildlife sanctuaries.”
“Give Government Jobs to Victims' Heirs” – Ashish Jaiswal
Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal suggested that certain forest areas be developed as grasslands to support wildlife within their natural habitat. He further proposed that heirs of those killed in animal attacks should be provided with immediate government employment.
Measures Discussed to Mitigate Human-Wildlife Conflict:
Consider transferring surplus tigers to other states to control their growing numbers in Maharashtra.
Install solar fencing to prevent wild animals from entering human settlements.
Use advanced communication systems to alert villagers of animal movements.
Send officials abroad to study wildlife management technologies.
Injured wild animals should be relocated to private wildlife sanctuaries for care.
