All farmers to be compensated for crop damage by elephants, bisons

Mumbai, Apr 12 (UNI) Maharashtra Government today told the Legislative Assembly that licensed gunholders in Kolhapur and Sindhudurg districts, who have suffered crop damage due to elephant and bison rampage, too, would be compensated.

Replying to a calling attention notice, Forest Minister Babanrao Pachpute said earlier compensation was not provided to licensed gun holders as per existing norms of the state and central governments.

''Arms license is issued for self protection and not for protection of crops and hence such license holders will be given compensation whose crops have been damaged by elephants and bisons,'' he added.

To question by Raju Shetty of Shetkari Sangathana on the arrogant behaviour of a forest department official in Kolhapur, the Minister said the official will be suspended.

He informed the House that the government was taking steps to curb the menace of elephants and bison in the 115 sq km area bordering Karnataka. Services of the global wildlife experts would be sought, he added.

UNI