By Ayodhya Prasad Singh

Human-wildlife conflict poses significant hazards for rural communities, leading to loss of life and livelihoods. This issue is particularly acute in forest-rich states like Maharashtra, where conflict incidents are alarmingly frequent.

In Chandrapur and Gadchiroli districts alone, last year witnessed 38 human fatalities due to wildlife attacks, alongside nearly 3,800 cases of livestock loss and extensive crop damage. These numbers underscore the severity of the issue. Forest officials are actively mitigating these conflicts and safeguarding lives despite the challenges.

Indian Masterminds recently interviewed key figures tackling this issue, including S. Rameshkumar, an IFS officer from the 2006 batch and Divisional Forest Officer in Gadchiroli, and Jitendra S. Ramgaokar, also an IFS officer from the 2006 batch and Chief Conservator of Forests in Chandrapur. Their insights shed light on the strategies being employed to reduce such incidents and protect communities.

Read Full Story https://indianmasterminds.com/features/curtailing-human-wildlife-encounters-comprehensive-conservation-efforts-in-chandrapur-gadchiroli-91361/