Maharashtra Declares Leopard Attacks a State Disaster: Fadnavis Unveils Comprehensive Management Plan

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed officials to present a proposal declaring leopard attacks on humans as a 'state disaster' at the next cabinet meeting. This directive comes in response to the increasing incidents of leopard-human conflicts across the state.

Fadnavis also called for a proposal to reclassify leopards from Schedule 1 to Schedule 2 under the Wildlife Protection Act, which would provide more flexibility in managing problematic animals. He emphasized the immediate installation of cages in necessary locations to control leopards that pose threats to human populations.

The Chief Minister mandated the establishment of two rescue centers in Pune district within the next two to three months specifically for the treatment and rehabilitation of captured leopards. These facilities will help address the growing leopard population in affected areas.

During Tuesday's meeting, which was convened due to rising fatalities from leopard attacks particularly in Pune, Ahilyanagar, and several Konkan region districts, Fadnavis outlined both urgent and long-term strategies to address the crisis.

"Leopards are included in Schedule One, which imposes limitations on capturing and dealing with man-eating leopards. We need to request the Central government to reconsider this classification," stated Fadnavis. "We have already received permission for leopard sterilization from the Central government, which will allow us to sterilize problematic leopards."

For immediate action, the Chief Minister directed officials to locate and capture leopards near populated areas using drone technology. He assured that necessary funding for cages, vehicles, and personnel would be made available through District Planning Committees.

The long-term strategy includes leopard sterilization programs and expanding the capacity of existing rescue centers in Gorewada, Nagpur, and other locations throughout Maharashtra.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced an additional safety measure for children in affected areas, stating that schools in districts reporting leopard attacks will operate between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm to ensure student safety.