Man-Animal Conflict in Maharashtra: Time for Coexistence, Not Conflict

The recent rise in tiger attacks near Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra is a powerful reminder of the growing man-animal conflict in India.

While India’s tiger population has nearly doubled—thanks to decades of conservation efforts—this success story has come with serious challenges. In 2024 alone, over 20 lives were lost, and nearly 150 people injured in tiger encounters around the reserve.

But the real question is: Why is this happening now?

The answer lies in territorial stress among tigers due to overpopulation in limited forest areas, and habitat fragmentation caused by infrastructure projects, urban expansion, and deforestation. Additionally, tribal communities, who depend on forest resources for survival, now face increased risk as they venture into forests for activities like collecting tendu leaves, wild fruits, or grazing cattle.

Tigers, especially displaced or threatened ones, stray into human settlements—not for food, but due to loss of space and safety.

The solution?

Not relocation. Not fencing off forests.

But coexistence through:

Involving local communities in conservation

Real-time alerts using drones and camera traps

Compensation for losses

Creating buffer zones and corridors

Respecting animal rights alongside protecting human life

This isn’t just a story of wildlife—it’s about how we design our future. Can conservation and compassion go hand in hand?

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