The Kerala Forest Department has unveiled a vital draft policy designed to tackle the escalating human-wildlife conflict across the state. This ambitious initiative, aptly named “Mission for Agricultural Revival and Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation,” outlines an intensive one-year action plan to foster coexistence.
Job J. Neriamparambil, the Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) for the Peerumade research unit and coordinator for the High Range Circle’s mitigation plan, reported that 37 grama panchayats within the Idukki, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and parts of Ernakulam districts have been identified as conflict hotspots. As of September 25, 2025, the High Range Circle had registered 535 complaints. While most were resolved locally by range and Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs), a significant number necessitated state-level discussions, he noted.
Panchayat-level consultations took place from September 23 to 25 to gather insights. Mr. Neriamparambil emphasized that these crucial mitigation efforts would be rolled out with the collaborative backing of various government departments.
During a stakeholder meeting in Munnar on September 24, 2025, local body representatives voiced serious concerns over the escalating frequency of wild animal attacks. They highlighted the immense challenges faced by farmers, whose crops and cattle were repeatedly targeted, making agricultural practices increasingly unsustainable, especially near Layams (cluster homes).
S. Biju, the Munnar range officer, noted that participants also discussed the detrimental impact of barbed wire fences erected in various Munnar blocks. These barriers impede the natural movement of wild elephants, forcing them to congregate in human settlements, thereby exacerbating conflicts.
To safeguard livestock, the meeting explored strategies such as promoting stall feeding in cattle sheds and deploying sensor lights to deter wild animals from attacking farms near residential areas. Additionally, a decision was made to dismantle problematic barbed fences in key locations, with the cooperation of local plantation companies.
Another key demand from the meeting was the urgent installation of real-time monitoring cameras at the Munnar panchayat’s waste treatment plant in Kallar and its adjacent factory area. This measure aims to effectively track wild elephant movements. Mr. Biju confirmed that these recommended plans would be put into action swiftly.
Sources revealed a significant number of complaints concerning the bonnet macaque. This common primate species in the High Range circle areas is protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, highlighting the complexity of managing these interactions.