Incidents of stray dogs biting people are frequently reported across the state. After these incidents, sterilization of the dogs is carried out, but due to incomplete sterilization, the menace of stray dogs continues to persist in the state. Now, the government, having acknowledged the challenge posed by the dogs, is considering sterilizing monkeys and pigs as well.
A proposal for establishing sterilization centers for these animals is currently pending with the state government. This information was shared by Forest Minister Ganesh Naik during a media interaction.
It is worth noting that the Maharashtra government is contemplating the establishment of sterilization centers for monkeys and pigs to prevent significant damage caused to fruit orchards and farms in the Konkan region. A meeting chaired by Minister Naik was held to discuss the issues faced by farmers in the Dapoli taluka of Ratnagiri district due to wild animals. Officials from the forest department and other related departments were present at the meeting.
Farmers in Dapoli taluka are suffering severe losses to their crops due to wild pigs and monkeys. These animals are now entering villages and causing damage to household items as well. Minister Naik emphasized that compensating for the damage caused by wild animals is not a permanent solution. Long-term and preventive measures are required to address the issue.
Naik assured that there would be no shortage of funds to implement these measures. Given the damage caused by wild pigs to fruit gardens and paddy fields, farmers should be allowed to take protective measures within legal boundaries. Earlier, farmers in the Konkan region were given firearm licenses, which have now been suspended. In this regard, Minister Naik instructed the Ratnagiri District Collector to ensure that licenses are issued to farmers according to regulations.
