MP: 97 blackbucks transferred from Shajapur-Shujalpur to Kuno National Park on Day One; target to relocate 2,000 herbivores to forest areas
Bhopal: The second phase of the campaign to capture and relocate blackbucks from the Shajapur-Shujalpur area began on Saturday. On the first day, 97 blackbucks were successfully captured in Hannukhedi village. These animals were sent to Kuno National Park, where they will be settled in a suitable habitat.
The objective of this campaign is to minimize crop damage caused by blackbucks and alleviate the difficulties faced by farmers and villagers. The target for this second phase is to relocate 2,000 blackbucks to appropriate forest areas.
Officials anticipate that this move will reduce human-wildlife conflict, protect agricultural crops, and boost farm yields. The initiative aims to strike a balance between wildlife conservation and the livelihood concerns of rural communities.
Experts Also Participating in the Campaign
The campaign is receiving technical support from 'Conservation Solutions,' a wildlife expert organization based in South Africa. Wildlife veterinarians, forest officials, and trained field staff from the Malwa region and other districts of Madhya Pradesh are also participating.
Officials are adhering to established protocols for capturing, handling, and transporting the animals to ensure their safety.
913 Animals Relocated in the First Phase
During the first phase last year, a total of 913 wild animals were captured, comprising 846 blackbucks and 67 nilgais. The experience gained from that campaign is helping officials ensure better coordination during the current phase.
The Forest Department has acknowledged the cooperation extended by the district administration, local representatives, and villagers. The department has appealed to the public to cooperate in protecting farmers' crops as well as saving wildlife.