Bengaluru: During the ongoing monsoon session of the Legislative Council, MLC Kishore Kumar from Puttur raised the urgent issue of escalating human–wildlife conflict in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, appealing to Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre for decisive action.

He noted that wild elephant intrusions into farmlands in Puttur, Sullia, Kadaba, and Belthangady are causing significant crop destruction, property damage, and even loss of life. Farmers, he said, are bearing the brunt of the Forest Department’s slow response.

Key Demands:

  • Permanent Elephant Camp in Dakshina Kannada: Relocating operations from distant camps like Dubare and Sakrebailu to a facility near Subramanya would speed up capture missions and promote tourism.

  • Radio Collar Tracking: Immediate fitting of ID collars on wild elephants to monitor movements accurately.

  • Elephant Control Force (ETF): Formation of a dedicated rapid-response team for emergencies.

  • Full Subsidy for Solar Fences: Raising support from the current 50% to 100% to safeguard farms and homes.

  • Ban on Cane Cultivation in Forests: To protect biodiversity and prevent food scarcity for wildlife.

  • Simplified Cattle License Procedures: Easier issuance and renewal for farmers defending crops from wild animal attacks.

    • MLC Kishore Kumar stressed that permanent, proactive solutions are essential to secure the livelihoods of local communities. Senior leader Pratap Simha Nayak echoed his concerns and backed the proposal.