Should leopard attacks be declared a state disaster in Maharashtra?
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Synopsis
The rising incidence of leopard attacks in Maharashtra has prompted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to propose declaring it a state disaster. Urgent measures, including the establishment of rescue centers and changes to wildlife protection laws, are being discussed to safeguard communities.
Key Takeaways
- Proposal to declare leopard attacks a state disaster.
- Immediate installation of cages to mitigate attacks.
- Establishment of rescue centers in Pune district.
- Long-term plan for sterilization of leopards.
- Change in school timings for safety.
Mumbai, Nov 18 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, announced on Tuesday that a proposal should be put forth in the upcoming cabinet meeting to classify the escalating issue of leopard attacks on humans in the state as a ‘state disaster’.
Additionally, he instructed that a proposal be drafted to remove leopards from Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act and to place them in Schedule 2.
Immediate action was mandated to install cages in strategic locations to mitigate leopard attacks on people.
During the meeting, Fadnavis emphasized the need for two rescue centers in Pune district dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of leopards, to be established within the next two to three months.
This meeting was convened in light of a troubling rise in deaths due to leopard attacks, particularly in Pune, Ahilyanagar, and various districts in the Konkan region.
He pointed out that leopards currently fall under Schedule One, which imposes restrictions on capturing or eliminating man-eating leopards. A proposal will be sent to the Central government advocating for their removal from Schedule One. The Central government has granted permission for sterilization of leopards, thus, it is crucial to identify and sterilize man-eating leopards.
Fadnavis highlighted that the increase in leopard attacks necessitates immediate and long-term strategies to address the situation.
For urgent measures, he suggested the identification and capture of leopards in proximity to villages and towns, utilizing drones for this purpose. Funding should be allocated from the District Planning Committee for essential resources such as cages, vehicles, and manpower.
In terms of long-term strategies, it is vital to proceed with the sterilization of leopards. Plans must also be established to secure locations for the two rescue centers in Pune for accommodating captured man-eating leopards.
Furthermore, he directed an increase in the capacity of existing rescue centers in Gorewada in Nagpur and elsewhere.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar mentioned that it has been decided that schools in areas where leopard attacks are prevalent will adjust their hours to operate from 9:30 AM to 4 PM to enhance children's safety.
Point of View
The increasing frequency of leopard attacks in Maharashtra is raising significant concerns. The proposed measures highlight the need for a balanced approach to wildlife management and human safety. This situation calls for immediate attention from both state and central authorities to ensure the safety of communities while also protecting wildlife.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures are being proposed to address leopard attacks?
The Chief Minister has proposed declaring leopard attacks a state disaster and is seeking to establish rescue centers while also considering changes to wildlife protection laws.
Why is there a need to change the wildlife protection status of leopards?
Leopards are currently listed under Schedule One, which restricts capturing or eliminating those that pose a threat to humans. Changing their status could facilitate more effective management.
How will schools be affected by leopard attacks?
In districts with reported leopard attacks, schools will operate from 9:30 AM to 4 PM to ensure children's safety.
