Odisha govt to provide Rs 10 lakh compensation for loss of human lives in wild animal attacks

In a major step towards addressing rising human-wildlife conflict cases, the Odisha Forest and Environment Department has formally issued a notification, announcing a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of those killed in attacks by wild animals. 

As per the notification, the assistance is not limited to cases of human casualties. Partial damage to houses caused by wild animals will now attract a compensation of Rs 10,000, while damage to kitchen sheds or cattle sheds will be compensated with Rs 3,000.

In cases where a house is completely destroyed by wild animals, the affected family will be provided a new house under the Antyodaya housing scheme.

Similarly, for damage to a pucca boundary or compound wall, compensation of Rs 5,000 per running metre, subject to a maximum of Rs 25,000, will be provided.

However, the rates of compensation for other types of depredation shall remain unchanged, the notification read.

The move comes in response to the increasing number of incidents involving elephants, leopards, and other wild animals straying into human settlements, especially in forest fringe areas. 

The revised package aims to ensure timely and adequate support to affected families and reduce distress among vulnerable communities.

Officials said the new guidelines are intended to bring greater clarity and fairness in compensating victims of human-wildlife conflict and will be implemented across the state with immediate effect.