The state government has recently announced a significant increase in compensation for victims of leopard and tiger attacks in the Junnar and Chandrapur regions. This move aims to provide substantial financial relief and support to affected families, acknowledging the severe impact of human-wildlife conflicts in these areas.
Enhanced Compensation Structure
The new compensation structure includes several notable changes:
- Loss of Life: The compensation for families who lose a loved one in a wildlife attack has been increased from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
- Permanent Disability: Survivors who suffer permanent disabilities due to these attacks will now receive Rs 7.50 lakh.
- Serious Injuries: The compensation for serious injuries has been raised to Rs 5 lakh.
- Minor Injuries: Victims with minor injuries will receive Rs 50,000.
Additionally, the compensation for crop damage has been increased to a maximum of Rs 50,000. This measure is intended to alleviate the financial burden on farmers who suffer losses due to wildlife incursions.
Official Statements and Justifications
Officials from the Forests, Junnar division, emphasized the importance of these changes. “For livestock damages, we pay 75% of the market value, which farmers often find insufficient. This increase will benefit them. Additionally, the higher compensation for grievous injuries is essential as survivors face significant medical expenses,” they stated.
Statistics and Impact
Data from the state forest department highlights the severity of the issue:
- Tiger Attacks in Chandrapur:
- 2023-24: 57 deaths
- 2022: 51 deaths
- 2021: 46 deaths
So far in 2024, there have been seven deaths, prompting authorities to designate Junnar as a ‘potential leopard disaster-prone area.’
Community Reactions
Survivors and their families have expressed gratitude for the increased compensation. A bison attack survivor from Kolhapur’s Bhuyewadi village shared, “The compensation will help me. I have undergone three surgeries and cannot work.” He also mentioned the profound loss of his nephew in the same attack, highlighting the emotional and financial toll on affected families.
Call for Preventive Measures
Despite the increased compensation, there is a strong call for the government to implement more preventive measures to reduce human-animal conflicts. The presence of gaurs, leopards, and elephants in farming areas causes significant panic and disruption in local communities.
