The Uttar Pradesh forest department will study wildlife conflict management models adopted by neighbouring and other states to strengthen mitigation measures and develop long-term strategies for handling rising human-wildlife conflict incidents in the state.
During a consultative meeting on human-wildlife conflict mitigation held at the UP forest headquarters, officials from UP and other states, along with subject experts, scientists, researchers and representatives of institutions working in wildlife conflict management, discussed best practices and technologies being used across the country.
V Hikali Zhimomi, principal secretary, department of environment, forest and climate change, said human-wildlife conflict remains a complex and evolving challenge with no single permanent solution. “Partnerships and shared responsibility among the government, the forest department, and local communities are absolutely essential to address this issue,” she said.
Officials discussed outcomes from Uttarakhand, including the “Living with Leopards” programme, school awareness campaigns, media workshops and community participation initiatives aimed at reducing conflict incidents. A large-scale monkey sterilisation programme currently underway in Uttarakhand and its impact on wildlife conflict management was also discussed.
The meeting also reviewed the “Maharashtra Model,” which includes hotspot mapping, deployment of trained rescue teams, involvement of veterinarians with wildlife management expertise and use of technology-based interventions.
Sunil Chaudhary, principal chief conservator of forests, UP and head of department, said the state would conduct a detailed study of innovative technologies and operational methods currently being implemented in other states.
Anuradha Vemuri, principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), gave a presentation on the present status and different dimensions of wildlife conflict in UP.
