Indore
As we continue encroaching forests, it is not a surprise that wild animals are forced to enter human-inhabited regions and feast on crops. Recently, more than 52 farmers complained to member of parliament (MP) Shankar Lalwani about substantial losses of crops in Sanwer and Depalpur location reported harm to crops and in turn, losses in their earnings.
Crop-raiding by locally overabundant populations of nilgai antelopes (Boselaphus tragocamelus) has been broadly reported in quite a few components of the nation. The extent of human-nilgai conflict is usually reported in these villages, as humans are swiftly expanding and even encroaching forest land by constructing townships.
Nilgai are located to be capable of causing substantial harm to most agricultural crops. Damage to wheat (Triticum aestivum), gram (Cicer arietinum) and mustard (Brassica campestris) crops was triggered not only by foraging but also by means of trampling, resting in field and every day movement of the animals.
As per a study performed by NP Chauhan, “In low density nilgai areas, losses to wheat, gram and moong (Phaseolus mungo) crops were 20-30%, 40-55% and 40-45%, respectively. Whereas in high density nilgai areas, damage to wheat, gram and moong was 35-60%, 50-70% and 45-60%, respectively.”
After hearing complaints, Lalwani wrote a letter to Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan sharing troubles of villagers of Sanwer and Depalpur and requesting to compensate farmers for their losses.
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//Nilgai comes at midnight in a big herd
“The nilgai or blue bull is the largest Asian antelope and is ubiquitous across the northern Indian subcontinent and sole member of the genus Boselaphus. More than 100 Nilgai come together often at night and raid the crops, hence, it is not possible for farmers to eject them easily. There is a provision to provide compensation to villagers in case of such a loss. Depalpur and Sanwer areas have often reported the raid, as Nilgai from nearby forests often wander into fields looking for a meal.”
AK Shrivastava
Sub-divisional officer (SDO)
Forest division