Kerala extends controlled wild boar culling order for another year
What's the story
The Kerala government has extended the order for controlled culling of wild boars by another year. The decision was taken after the Chief Wildlife Warden recommended it, citing ongoing threats to human life, property, and crops as they stray into human habitations. The extension will be effective from May 28, 2026.
Local empowerment
Who can address public complaints now?
Under the new order, complaints from the public can be addressed by Honorary Wildlife Wardens or authorized officers of local self-government institutions. These authorities are now empowered to issue permission for hunting or culling wild boars that enter residential areas and cause damage. The government had earlier delegated some powers of the Chief Wildlife Warden to these officials to tackle this issue more effectively.
Monitoring measures
Government review every 3 months
The new order also mandates a review at the government level every three months, with the Chief Wildlife Warden initiating this process. Local self-government institutions are required to report details of culled wild boars to the nearest Range Forest Office every month. This move is aimed at keeping track of the situation and ensuring necessary actions are taken promptly.