Government to Establish Centre of Excellence at WII–SACON to Mitigate Human–Wildlife Conflict.
National
On June 21, 2025, Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupendra Yadav announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence (CoE) to tackle human–wildlife conflict. This CoE will be hosted jointly by the Wildlife Institute of India and Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (WII–SACON), equipping India with advanced, science-backed solutions for preventing wildlife-related fatalities.
- The launch builds upon a 2021 advisory and 2022 guidelines on conflict mitigation, at a time when fatalities from tiger and elephant attacks are increasing. In 2024 alone, there were 74 tiger-related deaths—up from 86 in 2023 and 111 in 2022—with Maharashtra, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh being severely impacted. Similarly, 628 elephant-related human deaths were recorded in 2023–24, with Odisha experiencing 154 such incidents.
- The CoE will focus on the development and deployment of AI-driven tools, including camera traps, GIS mapping, and real-time tracking systems, supported by Standard Operating Procedures, targeted public sensitisation campaigns, and rapid response teams to prevent and manage conflict situations.
Main Point :- (i) During the announcement, Minister Yadav also initiated an effort to conserve the critically endangered gharial in Uttar Pradesh by releasing seven hatchlings into the Girwa River at Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. This initiative forms part of a broader aquatic ecosystem and river rejuvenation mission.
(ii) At a workshop held in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Minister Yadav interacted with the Tharu tribal community and members of the Special Tiger Protection Force, integrating traditional ecological knowledge and frontline insights. These consultations—along with submissions from 25–30 experts—will inform the CoE’s conflict mitigation strategy and policy roadmap.
(iii) The next steps include operationalizing AI-based systems at conflict hotspots, establishing district-level rapid-response units, launching continuous public awareness drives, and formalizing state and district committees for managing compensation and relief. Fully executing this initiative will require sustained funding, training, and ongoing monitoring to protect both communities and wildlife.
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