Khandre Urges Monthly Village Meets for Forest Issue Redressal

Fast Summary

• Forest Visits and Grievance Redressal: Habitat Minister Eshwar khandre has directed Deputy Conservator of Forests, Assistant Conservator of Forests, and Range Forest Officers to hold monthly grievance redressal meetings in villages near forest areas to address issues such as man-animal conflicts.
• man-Animal Conflicts: Officials are tasked with resolving problems like loss of life and crop damage caused by wildlife, as well as preventing incidents like deaths of wild animals due to illegal electric fences.
• Railway Track Expansion Proposal: The Minister reviewed the proposal for doubling the railway track from Hosapete to castle Rock. measures are being discussed to mitigate environmental impacts before presenting the proposal at a future meeting.
• Marine Sanctuary Launch: Karnataka’s first marine sanctuary-Mugli-Apsarakonda Marine Sanctuary-is set to be inaugurated in September. Spread across 5,959 hectares in Uttara Kannada district, it was approved by the State Wildlife Board.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

Minister Eshwar Khandre’s directive highlights an emerging focus on participatory governance within environmental management. Making grievance redressal meetings mandatory could help alleviate tensions surrounding man-animal conflict by building trust between villagers and forest officials while ensuring quicker resolution mechanisms. This approach fosters collaboration and protects biodiversity more effectively.the review of railway expansion underlines India’s balancing act between infrastructure development and conservation priorities. Early discussions about mitigation signal proactive measures that might prevent irreversible damage.

Lastly, the inauguration of Karnataka’s first marine sanctuary represents a notable step forward for coastal ecosystem protection. However, its long-term success depends on rigorous enforcement against ecological harm paired with sustained community engagement in conservation efforts-a theme echoed across all initiatives mentioned by Mr. Khandre.