MLA Pahalgam distributes ex-gratia relief among Human-Wildlife Conflict victims

Chairs consultative meeting on the management of Overa -Aru Wildlife Sanctuary

ANANTNAG, MAY 18: In a compassionate gesture towards the victims of human-wildlife conflict, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Pahalgam, M Altaf Kaloo, today distributed ex-gratia relief cheques at Townhall Aishmuqam.

Addressing the gathering, MLA Kaloo emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive and strategic plan to mitigate rising incidents of human-wildlife conflict in the region. “While the ex-gratia relief provides temporary support to the victims, our main focus should be on preventing such incidents from occurring in the first place,” he said.

On the occasion, DFO gave a detailed presentation highlighting the department’s ongoing efforts, achievements, and future strategies aimed at minimizing human-wildlife conflicts and ensuring safety for both communities and wildlife.

Later, MLA also chaired the consultative meeting on the management of Overa -Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, besides, inferred that he saw first time a detailed and scientific plan for Overa-Aru WLS for 10 years from 2025- 2035, also detailed DPR for Mini Zoo Pahalgam was appreciated.

The initiative was appreciated by the victims, who expressed hope for more proactive measures and increased community engagement in wildlife management.
DFO Wildlife Protection South along with concerned Wildlife Rangers, field staff, human-wildlife victims and civil society members were present on the occasion.