Keralam doubles compensation for crop damage caused by wild animals
THE Keralam government has doubled the compensation paid to farmers for crop losses caused by wild animal attacks, while removing the ceiling on compensation and restrictions on the number of claims that can be submitted.
According to a revised order issued by the Forest and Wildlife Department, the compensation rates have been updated for the first time since 2015, following a review that found the existing assistance inadequate for farmers affected by human-wildlife conflict.
Under the revised rates, farmers will receive ₹15 for each coconut damaged by wild animals and ₹30 per kilogram of cocoa lost or damaged. Coconut and cocoa produce have also been brought under the compensation scheme, expanding the coverage beyond damage to plants and trees.
The government has removed the maximum compensation limit and restrictions on the number of applications a farmer can submit, allowing eligible farmers to seek compensation for multiple instances of crop damage.
Farmers affected by wildlife attacks must report the damage to the concerned authorities within 72 hours, or no later than two weeks, as applicable under the revised procedures. They must submit their applications in the prescribed format within six months of the incident.
The existing eligibility conditions and verification procedures will continue. The Forest Department will assess the extent of the damage before determining the compensation payable.
The move is aimed at providing greater financial relief to farmers, particularly those living and cultivating land near forest areas, where raids by elephants, monkeys and other wild animals frequently damage crops and agricultural produce.
The revised compensation scheme forms part of the state's broader efforts to address human-wildlife conflict and improve support for affected farming communities.
