Project Hanuman launched to tackle human-wildlife conflict in AP

Vijayawada: Deputy chief minister and forest & environment minister Pawan Kalyan on Tuesday formally launched the Hanuman Project, a statewide initiative to tackle rising incidents of human-wildlife conflict. The programme was inaugurated at the APSP 6th Battalion Parade Ground in Mangalagiri, where over 100 specially equipped vehicles were flagged off as part of the rollout.The Hanuman Project — expanded as Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nursing of Wildlife — was introduced in response to increasing cases of crop damage, livestock loss, and threats to both human life and wildlife in forest-border villages. "The balance of nature and protection of wildlife are crucial for human survival. Recent incidents have shown the urgent need for a structured and scientific response mechanism," Pawan Kalyan said.Under the initiative, 93 rapid response and rescue vehicles and 7 wildlife ambulances have been deployed across the state. Four wildlife rescue and treatment centres and 19 rapid response teams have been set up in key locations including Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, and Tirupati. Each team comprises forest officials, veterinary staff, and trained support personnel to ensure immediate action during emergencies.Explaining the objective, the minister said: "Hanuman's main duty is to protect crops, livestock, people's lives, and property while ensuring strict wildlife conservation. Whenever an incident occurs, immediate response, mitigation, and compensation systems will be activated."Village-level Vajra wildlife protection teams are also being formed to handle local issues, particularly snakes and other animals straying into human habitations.Highlighting relief measures, Pawan Kalyan announced that ex-gratia for deaths caused by wild animal attacks has been doubled from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh. Compensation for injuries has been raised to ₹2 lakh, while cattle losses will be compensated at market value.He further revealed that AI-based wildlife monitoring systems are being piloted to track animal movements and provide early warnings in vulnerable areas. "Our goal is to ensure that humans and wildlife coexist safely with minimal conflict," he added.