Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Mar 10: The Goa government will frame a policy to manage rising human–wildlife conflicts after studying models adopted by states such as Kerala and Karnataka, state Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane said on Tuesday.

Rane was responding to a question raised by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao in the Goa Legislative Assembly during the ongoing budget session.

The minister acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, noting that wild animals such as panthers, bison, monkeys and leopards have increasingly been entering human settlements.

“I know this is a serious issue. It is important for us to create the right ecosystem within forest areas so that wildlife remains within their natural habitat,” he said.

Rane added that the forest department will formulate a dedicated policy framework to address the growing number of incidents involving animals straying into residential areas.

He also informed the House that the proposal would be discussed with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant before finalising the policy structure.

When Alemao pointed out that Kerala and Karnataka have already introduced similar policies, Rane said the Goa government would study their models to adopt best practices while preparing its own human–wildlife conflict management policy.