Human-leopard conflict has become a pressing issue in Maharashtra, particularly in four talukas within Pune district. These areas are Junnar, Ambegaon, Shirur, and Khed. The high density of leopards has led to numerous attacks on humans, raising alarm among local residents and prompting political action during the ongoing election season.
Current Situation
The Junnar taluka reports a leopard density of approximately seven leopards per 100 square kilometres. Since March, eight human fatalities have been recorded, including five children. In response, over 230 villages have been designated as disaster-prone due to repeated leopard attacks. Politicians are pledging to address this crisis, with promises of effective measures.
Political Responses
Politicians from various parties have made commitments to tackle the issue. Member of Parliament Amol Kolhe proposed sterilising leopards to control their population. He raised this matter in Parliament to highlight the urgent need for safety in the region. However, the proposal has not yet received approval from the Centre, causing frustration among locals.
Government Measures
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced efforts to trap and relocate leopards to other states. Funds have been allocated to enhance safety measures for residents. The local government is also exploring the idea of establishing a leopard safari to reduce conflict, which has garnered support from the community.
Community Concerns
Residents like Kaustubh Batwal express fear in their daily lives, particularly when working in fields. They urge politicians to take more decisive action rather than merely making promises. The community advocates for a fenced area to restrict leopards from entering human habitation, ensuring safety for all.
Future Initiatives
Vivek Khandekar, Maharashtra’s chief wildlife warden, mentioned that the sterilisation proposal is undergoing review by the Union environment ministry and the Wildlife Institute of India. If approved, the plan will aim to manage the leopard population sustainably. This initiative, while unprecedented in India, has shown success in other countries.
Conservation Efforts
The proposed sterilisation programme aims to maintain a balanced ecosystem. Experts will collaborate with local communities to ensure the plan is effective and considerate of conservation needs. The goal is to prevent further human-leopard conflicts while promoting wildlife conservation.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the impact of human-leopard conflict on local communities in Maharashtra.
- Critically discuss the effectiveness of sterilisation as a method for managing leopard populations.
- Analyse the role of political promises in addressing wildlife conflicts in Maharashtra.
- Point out the potential challenges in implementing a leopard safari in the region.
