Govt moves to curb crop damage, human-wildlife conflicts

The government has taken steps to tackle the growing problem of crop damage and human-wildlife conflicts, which have severely affected rural agricultural livelihoods and national food security. 

Cabinet spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said wild animals such as elephants, wild boars, monkeys, baboons, cheetahs, and peacocks roaming human habitats and cultivated lands have caused significant property damage and social and economic challenges.

In response, the Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation Ministry prepared a comprehensive program to manage wildlife-related crop and property damage, incorporating input from the public, universities, farmer organizations, environmentalists, NGOs, and relevant government departments.

Following proposals presented by the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation, the Cabinet has appointed a Ministerial Committee under the Minister’s chairmanship, with participation from other relevant Ministers. The committee will review the program’s proposals and submit recommendations for its effective implementation, including any new measures identified during the process.

source: Daily Mirror