On World Wildlife Day 2026, Andhra Pradesh launched Project HANUMAN to address rising human-wildlife conflict across the state. The initiative was revealed at the APSP 6th Battalion Parade Grounds in Mangalagiri, Guntur district. The project aims to rescue, treat, rehabilitate and monitor injured wildlife, while also improving rapid response systems in conflict-prone areas.
What Project HANUMAN Means
HANUMAN stands for Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nursing of Wildlife. It is designed as a technical and scientific programme to reduce conflict between people and wildlife. The focus is on protecting both forest-edge communities and wildlife habitats.
Conflict and Compensation Measures
Human-wildlife conflict has increased in Andhra Pradesh in recent years. In 2025-26, 2,107 cases were recorded, and nearly Rs 4 crore was paid as compensation. The state has raised compensation for deaths in animal attacks from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. Compensation for injuries has been increased to Rs 2 lakh. Livestock loss will be compensated at market value.
Response Teams and Rescue Infrastructure
The government has begun forming village-level Vajra, or Wildlife Rakshak, teams. These local volunteers will handle snake rescues and minor wildlife incidents. Under the project, 100 vehicles will be deployed, including 93 rapid response vehicles and seven ambulances. Each team will include a forest range officer, veterinary staff, tribal helpers and para veterans. Four wildlife rescue and treatment centres have been set up in Visakhapatnam, Rajamahendravaram, Tirupati and Birlut.
Technology and Elephant Management
Artificial intelligence will be used to track wildlife movement and issue advance warnings before animals enter forest-boundary areas. A Hanuman digital app has also been developed by the forest department. The project will also address elephant depredation in Chittoor, Srikakulam and Parvatipuram Manyam districts. Four Kumki elephants brought with Karnataka’s cooperation have already been used in operations to manage elephant movement.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026