NEWS – Karnataka has witnessed a sharp rise in human-elephant conflict, prompting the Forest Department to issue detailed guidelines to 13 divisions for managing such emergencies.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Conflict Statistics: In FY 2024-25, Karnataka reported 35,580 wildlife conflict incidents; 63% (22,483 cases) involved elephants.
• Casualties and Damage: 50 elephants died due to electrocution in four years. Rs 13.5 crore out of Rs 22 crore ex gratia paid was for elephant-related incidents.
• Pending Claims: Around 15,000 cases involving Rs 23 crore in compensation are yet to be settled.
• Legal and Ethical Concerns: The Karnataka High Court raised concerns over the use of Section 11 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, particularly the indiscriminate capture of elephants in Hassan.
• Root Causes: Habitat loss, fragmentation, food and water scarcity, and proximity to human settlements drive conflict.

Guideline Measures:

• Human and Elephant Safety: Priority focus on safeguarding both species.
• Rapid Response Teams: Immediate deployment to conflict zones.
• Resource Mobilisation: Coordinated use of available assets.
• Rescue Protocols: Timely response to elephant deaths—whether natural, accidental, or conflict-related.
• Conflict Prevention: Emphasis on long-term mitigation through preparedness and community involvement.

Analysis:

• While the guidelines are comprehensive, implementation challenges persist—particularly due to staff shortages and poor working conditions for outsourced personnel.
• The High Court’s scrutiny underscores the need for ethical and science-based conflict resolution strategies.
• Long-term solutions lie in habitat restoration, community-based conservation, and institutional reform.