In Madhya Pradesh, the forest department has carried out a large-scale operation to relocate blackbuck and Nilgai from revenue lands in Shajapur district, aiming to reduce human-wildlife conflict affecting farmers. Over 11 operational days, a total of 913 animals were herded and shifted to protected forest areas.
Operation and method
An expert team from South Africa assisted the state forest department in carrying out the operation. Using a helicopter, the team steered herds of blackbuck and Nilgai into specially constructed boma enclosures made of grass and green netting walls. The process ensured that the animals were guided without direct human contact, reducing stress and injury.
Once captured, the animals were translocated to Rani Durgavati Tiger Reserve, Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, Gandhisagar Wildlife Sanctuary and Kuno National Park.
Reason for relocation
Divisional Forest Officer Beerendra Kumar Patel said that an estimated 15,000 blackbuck and Nilgai roam across revenue land that lacks forest cover. Their movement frequently damages crops, leading to repeated complaints from farmers.
Patel explained that even a herd of 50 blackbuck can significantly affect crops throughout the farming cycle, from disturbing seeds at sowing to grazing once crops mature. This prompted the government to approve the relocation plan.
Scale and planning
The operation took around 20 days of planning, with actual field work possible only on 11 days due to technical and environmental constraints. Around 150 officials, veterinarians and wildlife experts were deployed across multiple districts. Local villagers also supported the effort by pointing out areas with high herbivore presence.
The operation is being described as the first of its kind in India to be carried out successfully at such a large scale.
Training and future plans
The South Africa-based firm Conservation Solution, known for relocating elephants and rhinos, was chosen for its expertise. During the mission, the team also trained Indian forest staff, allowing similar methods to be used in other regions in the future.
Patel noted that approvals, safety measures and ensuring minimal disturbance to both animals and nearby human populations were among the key challenges.
The relocation has been welcomed by farmers, who say it will help reduce crop loss. Forest officials say the herbivores will also benefit as they are being moved into natural habitats better suited for their survival.
The forest department is assessing the project as a pilot, with the possibility of extending the model to other districts facing similar conflicts.