What Actions is Pawan Kalyan Taking to Address Elephant Attacks?
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Synopsis
In response to rising incidents of elephant attacks on farmers in Chittoor district, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is taking decisive measures, including tracking elephant herd routes and providing compensation. This article explores the recent tragic events and the government's actions to safeguard farmers while addressing the alarming increase in wild elephant encounters.
Key Takeaways
- Regular tracking of elephant herds is vital for farmer safety.
- The recent death of a farmer has spurred government action.
- Compensation for victims' families has been doubled.
- Wild elephants have caused significant crop damage.
- Effective utilization of trained elephants is necessary.
Amaravati, July 27 (NationPress) Following the tragic death of another farmer in Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district due to an elephant attack, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has instructed officials to consistently monitor the pathways of elephant herds and keep farmers informed.
The Deputy Chief Minister, who also holds the position of state Forest and Environment Minister, expressed his sorrow over the demise of a farmer caused by an elephant herd.
Upon learning about the unfortunate incident involving farmer Ramakrishna Raju from Kothuru village, the Deputy Chief Minister sought details from the Forest Department regarding the event.
He has mandated regular tracking of elephant herd routes and emphasized the necessity of alerting farmers in those regions.
Pawan Kalyan has additionally ordered the Forest Department and district authorities to extend condolences to the deceased farmer's family and ensure they receive compensation.
The 45-year-old farmer had gone to tend his fields, and when he did not return by nightfall, his family went in search of him, only to discover his lifeless body in the fields.
This marks the second such incident in the district within the past month; a 60-year-old farmer was previously killed by a wild elephant near Nagamvandlapalli village.
A herd of around 15 elephants has been active in the area for the last three months, causing repeated destruction to agricultural lands.
Despite the Forest Department's efforts to mitigate these incidents, wild elephants continue to pose a threat to both human lives and crops.
The recent event has raised new alarms regarding the rising occurrence of wild elephant invasions in the undivided Chittoor district.
As per forest officials, wild elephant attacks have resulted in the deaths of approximately 25 individuals in the area since 2011.
In response to these incidents, the government has recently increased the compensation for victims' families from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. Between 2015 and 2024, wild elephants have damaged crops across 203 acres.
Local residents have pointed out that, despite having two trained kumki elephants and acquiring additional elephants from Karnataka, the Forest Department has not effectively utilized these resources to tackle the wild elephant problem.
Point of View
There is an urgent necessity for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the root causes of human-wildlife conflict and prioritizes the safety and livelihood of affected farmers.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the government taking to protect farmers from elephant attacks?
The government has directed officials to regularly monitor elephant herd routes and alert farmers accordingly to prevent attacks.
How many people have been affected by wild elephant attacks in Chittoor?
Since 2011, approximately 25 individuals have lost their lives due to wild elephant attacks in the region.
What compensation is provided to families of victims?
The government has increased the compensation for victims' families from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
Why are wild elephants invading agricultural lands?
The invasion of agricultural lands by wild elephants is primarily due to their foraging behavior and habitat encroachment.
Are there any trained elephants being used to manage wild elephants?
Yes, there are two trained kumki elephants, but locals feel the Forest Department has not utilized them effectively.
