Bihar Assembly Speaker Calls for Expansion of Licensed Hunters to 400
In a significant move to address wildlife-related issues, Bihar State Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar on Tuesday directed concerned officials to increase the number of licensed hunters or shooters to 400. The directive aims to streamline the process for hunting 'ghorparas' (antelopes) in the state, responding to growing concerns over crop damage and farmer distress.
Meeting Convened to Address Legislative Concerns
The meeting was convened to discuss a starred question raised in the House by BJP MLA Rajneesh Kumar. It focused on multiple aspects, including the remuneration for hunters, the procedure for farmers to apply for grants or assistance due to crop damage caused by antelopes, and the assessment and compensation mechanisms for such incidents. Officials were tasked with ensuring better implementation and closer monitoring of the scheme by the agriculture department.
Current Status and Proposed Changes
During the discussions, it was revealed that only 13 shooters are currently licensed to hunt ghorparas in Bihar. Speaker Prem Kumar emphasized the need to simplify the application process to encourage more participation, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of wildlife management efforts. The meeting also reviewed proposals to declare snakes as wild animals officially, aligning compensation for snakebite deaths and injuries with that for other wild animal attacks.
Compensation Disparities Addressed
Currently, the disaster management department provides compensation of Rs 4 lakh for snakebite deaths and injuries, whereas compensation for deaths and injuries caused by other wild animals stands at Rs 10 lakh. The Speaker instructed departmental officials to complete necessary formalities to classify snakes as wild animals, ensuring that victims receive Rs 10 lakh in compensation, thereby addressing a long-standing disparity.
Key Attendees and Broader Implications
The meeting was attended by BJP MLA Rajneesh Kumar, MLAs Jibesh Kumar and Mithilesh Tiwari, Anand Kishor (Additional Chief Secretary of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department), and senior officials from the agriculture and panchayati raj departments. This initiative reflects a proactive approach to balancing wildlife conservation with agricultural protection, aiming to mitigate conflicts and support affected communities through structured policies and enhanced oversight.
