Nagpur: With human-wildlife conflict escalating across Maharashtra, the State Government has announced a major initiative aimed at finding long-term solutions to the issue. State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, while addressing a press conference in Nagpur, revealed that the government is set to launch a dedicated “Leopard Project” on the lines of the Tiger Project. Under this initiative, modern wildlife museums will be established in every district of the state.
These museums will provide detailed information on leopard behaviour, conservation, management and research, along with insights into other wildlife species. Equipped with advanced technology, the museums will be connected directly to the key research centres of the Forest Department, enabling better monitoring and scientific analysis.
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To prevent leopards from straying into agricultural fields and villages, the government has approved a plan to construct a 500-foot-wide bamboo fencing system. The barrier is expected to significantly reduce incidents of leopards wandering outside forest boundaries, thereby enhancing the safety of farmers and rural residents.
Rising leopard population prompts special policy
With the leopard population in Maharashtra projected to increase from 5,000 to nearly 6,000, the government is formulating a separate policy for their migration, protection and management. Special training hubs for leopard management will be developed at Orange City Centres in Nagpur and Pune, where officials and frontline staff will receive expert training to handle human–wildlife conflict situations effectively.
The state government believes this initiative will mark a historic milestone in scientific wildlife conservation, improved management practices, and stronger rural safety measures. The Leopard Project is expected to play a crucial role in restoring ecological balance between humans and wildlife, while ensuring coexistence and mutual protection.
