What Compensation Has the Karnataka Government Announced for Forest Martyrs?

Bengaluru, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Congress-led Karnataka government has declared a compensation of Rs 50 lakh for the families of 62 forest martyrs during the "National Forest Martyrs Day Celebration -2025" event. This announcement was made by the Minister for Forests, Eshwar Khandre.

While inaugurating the event organized by the Forest Department at the Malleswaram Forest Bhavan, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that the survival of humanity hinges on the conservation of forests. He remarked that honoring the sacrifices of forest martyrs is a responsibility that lies with everyone.

He pointed out that as the green cover expands, so does the forest area, leading to an increase in forest wealth. Karnataka is recognized for its exceptional wildlife resources. By ensuring that animals have adequate food and water in their habitats, we can mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.

The government has mandated the construction of railway barricades to minimize conflicts between humans and wild animals, ensuring their proper maintenance. The Forest Department is equipped with sufficient funds, and additional finances can be provided if necessary. CM Siddaramaiah stressed the need for effective barricades to prevent conflicts with elephants.

Senior officials are encouraged to frequently visit forested areas and spend more time in these regions. Such engagement will motivate lower-level staff to remain in the forest and fulfill their responsibilities efficiently.

During the National Forest Martyrs Day event, Minister Eshwar Khandre revealed that Rs 50 lakh will be compensated to the families of those who died during operations against the notorious forest brigand Veerappan, in pursuits against poachers, during forest fires, or in human-animal conflicts.

Khandre noted that 62 individuals have made the ultimate sacrifice. These martyrs lost their lives while combating Veerappan, pursuing poachers, managing forest fires, or addressing human-wildlife confrontations. He assured that the families of these martyrs will receive the announced compensation.

The minister also raised concerns about the worsening effects of climate change, pointing out the occurrence of sudden cloudbursts and excessive rainfall. He warned that humanity is on a path toward destruction, with Karnataka being at risk of landslides. The only viable solution is to protect forest resources. The state boasts rich forest assets, with the Western Ghats being home to numerous biodiversity hotspots. The Western Ghats influence monsoon winds and precipitation.

He further indicated that 2 lakh acres of land have been encroached upon, with around 30,000 to 40,000 acres reclaimed and designated as protected areas.

Expressing his sorrow over the deaths of five tigers, Minister Khandre mentioned that even the Chief Minister has issued strict directives regarding this matter. Human-wildlife tensions have escalated.

Karnataka ranks first nationally in elephant population and second in tigers. While animal populations are on the rise, forest land is diminishing. Consequently, various strategies are being studied to address this growing issue.