The Government of Karnataka is contemplating the introduction of birth control measures for certain wildlife species due to rising concerns over human-animal conflicts, as stated by Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister Eshwar B Khandre on Wednesday. However, a definitive decision on this matter has yet to be reached.
During remarks made following the tragic death of a coffee farmer resulting from an elephant attack in Chikkamagaluru, Khandre expressed his belief that population control should be considered for specific wildlife species that have seen significant population increases. He highlighted the troubling reality that human lives are at stake due to these conflicts, attributing part of the problem to a surge in wild animal populations driven by conservation efforts. “There are proposals for implementing birth control operations or injections for animals,” he noted.
In response to inquiries, the minister indicated that the forest department has not yet compiled a list of species that require population management. He mentioned that discussions with senior officials and wildlife experts are forthcoming.
Khandre also revealed that a case concerning wildlife birth control is currently pending in the Supreme Court and that the state intends to submit a petition to the court as well. “Our goal is to protect wildlife while also safeguarding human lives,” he remarked.
While no final verdict has been made by the department, Khandre reiterated his personal stance that these measures should be taken into consideration.
Karnataka has experienced a troubling number of fatalities linked to human-animal interactions over the past six months, with numerous incidents involving elephants and tigers, particularly near the Bandipur and Nagarhole national parks. Last November, the forest department had to pause safaris in these parks for nearly three months due to a rise in tiger attacks on nearby villages.
In February, Chikkamagaluru saw significant unrest following the deaths of two individuals within a week due to wild elephant encounters. Recently, another fatality linked to an elephant attack was reported in the same district.
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