Archive · 3 Nov 2025
Karnataka Minister Warns of Halting Safaris Due to Man-Animal Conflict
A government minister in Karnataka is concerned about wild animals, like tigers and elephants, coming into villages and causing problems for people.
He said that they won't allow any illegal buildings or activities inside forest areas.
Because more animals are living in the forests and the forests are getting smaller, the animals are coming into contact with people more often, sometimes with deadly results.
The minister mentioned that many people lose their lives each year due to animal attacks.
To help solve this, he is forming teams to study the problem, wants to use new technology for monitoring, and might even stop safari rides in places like Bandipur National Park if they make the problem worse.
He also plans to hire special vets for animals and ensure that forest staff are well-trained and responsive to people's concerns.
Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre declared zero tolerance for illegal homestays, resorts, and mining activities in forest zones.
The minister warned that safaris in Bandipur National Park may face further restrictions or suspension if man-animal conflicts persist.
Expert committees have been formed to study the causes of human-wildlife conflict and suggest long-term solutions.
Plans are underway to establish an integrated command center utilizing advanced technology for surveillance and to guide animals back into forests.
The government aims to increase compensation for crop and livestock losses due to wildlife and establish a state-level task force to address these conflicts.
- Who
- Karnataka Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre
- What
- Stated that illegal activities in forest areas will not be tolerated and warned of potential suspension of safaris if man-animal conflicts persist, while outlining measures to mitigate these conflicts.
- When
- Sunday
- Where
- Chamarajanagar, Karnataka
- Why
- To address rising man-animal conflicts due to increasing wildlife populations and shrinking forest spaces, and to curb illegal activities within forest zones.
- Minister
- Eshwar B. Khandre
- Issue
- Man-animal conflict, illegal activities in forest zones
- Location
- Chamarajanagar, Karnataka
- Specific Incidents
- Rising wildlife population, increased human-wildlife conflict, 55-60 deaths annually on average from wildlife attacks, 30 deaths in 2025-26 (20 elephant, 4 tiger attacks)
- Proposed Actions
- Potential suspension of safaris, reassignment of staff, formation of expert committees, enhanced compensation discussion, integrated command center with advanced technology, direct recruitment of wildlife veterinarians, power and water supply to forest-fringe villages, state-level task force.
- Stance on Illegal Activities
- Zero tolerance for illegal homestays, resorts, and mining in forest zones.
