J&K's Human-Wildlife Conflict: An Ongoing Battle for Coexistence

Over a span of two years, Jammu and Kashmir have grappled with 15,661 incidents of human-wildlife conflict, resulting in 32 deaths and 350 injuries. Forest Minister Javed Rana presented these figures in the Assembly, responding to a query from NC MLA Mubarak Gul.

Jammu district was identified as the most affected area, accounting for nearly 18% of such cases. From 2023 to 2024, 9,301 incidents were recorded, with 18 fatalities and 137 injuries. The years 2024 to 2025 saw 6,360 cases, causing 14 deaths and 213 injuries. Mitigation measures and development planning are pivotal to long-term human-wildlife coexistence.

The government has established 42 control rooms equipped for rapid response to wildlife emergencies and conducts extensive awareness programs. Challenges persist with pending compensation claims, but efforts continue with habitat protection and scientific zoning to address conflict hotspots effectively.