1 hr ago

Keralam to Double Compensation for Wildlife Deaths, Crop Losses

Keralam says it will give more money to people affected by wildlife attacks.

Families of people who die and farmers whose crops are damaged will receive higher compensation.

Each destroyed coconut will qualify for Rs 15.

Each damaged cocoa plant will qualify for Rs 30.

The government says payments for crop losses should reach farmers faster.

Several government departments will work together to reduce conflicts between people and animals.

Defence systems will be added in 55 high-conflict panchayats.

The government also wants to support eco-tourism and crops that wildlife is less likely to damage.

Key facts

Coconut compensation: Rs 15 for each coconut destroyed by wildlife, including monkeys.
Cocoa compensation: Rs 30 for each cocoa plant damaged by wildlife.
Priority areas: 55 panchayats identified for multi-layered defence systems.
Government strategy: Containment, mitigation and compensation.
Land acquisition: Eligible compensation will be provided for land acquired under Ecologically Sensitive Zones or Ecologically Fragile Land measures.
Additional farmer income: A pilot project will link homestays and backpacking with eco-tourism near forest areas.
Alternative crops: The government plans to promote less vulnerable crops, including high-curcumin turmeric.

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