TV
In a significant step towards strengthening support for victims of human-wildlife conflict, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a major enhancement in the ex-gratia amount provided in cases of deaths caused by wild animal attacks. The compensation amount, which earlier stood at Rs 6 lakh, has now been increased to Rs 10 lakh.
The move comes in response to the growing number of incidents involving wild animal intrusions, particularly in forest-adjacent villages, which often lead to loss of life and property. Acknowledging the plight of affected families, the Chief Minister has directed that the financial aid be raised accordingly.
As per the revised policy, along with the enhanced death compensation, additional relief will be provided for those whose houses are damaged in such incidents. If a victim’s house is partially or fully destroyed, and they do not qualify for assistance under the Antyodaya housing scheme, they will be given equivalent monetary support.
Furthermore, in cases where essential structures such as kitchens, grain storage houses, or cowsheds are damaged by wild animals, affected families will receive a compensation of Rs 3,000.
In addition, for damage to permanent structures like boundary walls, the government will provide Rs 5,000 per meter, subject to a maximum cap of Rs 25,000 per household.
The decision reflects the new government’s commitment to enhancing human-wildlife conflict mitigation mechanisms and ensuring timely relief to those living in vulnerable forest-fringe areas.
