A delegation of the Karnataka Farmers’ Federation met Union Minister for Forests, Environment and Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav in New Delhi and sought urgent intervention to address the long-standing human-elephant conflict affecting Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru and Hassan districts.
The delegation, led by Federation President Halase Shivanna, held detailed discussions with the Union Minister, who assured that the Central Government is fully aware of the issue and would extend all possible cooperation, including financial support, to resolve the problem.
The delegation also met Additional Director General of Forests Ramesh K. Pandey, who stated that the issue has spread across nearly eight states and that a comprehensive action plan has already been prepared by the Central Government.
He informed that under the 16th Plan, funds have been earmarked for State Governments to implement mitigation measures. A coordination meeting involving the State Government, Farmers’ Federation and the Central Ministry is scheduled to be held in Bengaluru in the third week of May.
A summary report on human-elephant conflict prepared by the Karnataka Farmers’ Federation was submitted to the Union Minister and senior officials.
The delegation included Federation Vice President K.K. Vishwanath, Chikkamagaluru District Growers’ Association President K.U. Ratish, Mudigere Taluk Growers’ Association Secretary K.D. Manohar and Hassan District Planters’ Association Treasurer M.J. Sachin.
