New Compensation Relief Announced for Victims of Leopard and Tiger Attacks
New Compensation Relief Announced for Victims of Leopard and Tiger Attacks
State government increases compensation for victims of wildlife attacks in Junnar and Chandrapur, providing significant financial relief for affected families.
June 29, 2024
The state government has announced on Friday an increase in compensation for victims of leopard and tiger attacks in Junnar and Chandrapur. The compensation for loss of life has been raised from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 25 lakh for the next of kin.
Survivors of these attacks will now receive Rs 7.50 lakh for permanent disability, Rs 5 lakh for serious injuries, and Rs 50,000 for minor injuries. This decision aims to provide much-needed financial support to those who have suffered due to human-wildlife conflicts.
The maximum amount payable for crop damage compensation has also been increased to Rs 50,000. “For livestock damages, we pay 75% of the market value, which farmers often find insufficient. This increase will benefit them. Additionally, the higher compensation for grievous injuries is essential as survivors face significant medical expenses,” said officials from Forests, Junnar division.
Data from the state forest department revealed that 57 people died in tiger attacks in Chandrapur during 2023-24. There were 51 deaths in 2022 and 46 in 2021. In 2024, there have been seven deaths, leading authorities to designate Junnar as a ‘potential leopard disaster-prone area.’
A bison attack survivor from Kolhapur’s Bhuyewadi village has expressed his gratitude for the increased compensation. “The compensation will help me. I have undergone three surgeries and cannot work,” he said. His nephew, who died in the same attack, has left a significant void in the family. Patil added, “The government should make more efforts to prevent human-animal conflicts as gaurs, leopards, and elephants entering farms cause panic in the community.”
The state government’s revised compensation scheme is expected to provide much-needed relief and support to the affected families, helping them cope with the aftermath of such tragic incidents.
