Capture a monkey, earn Rs 600: Maharashtra scheme to curb human-wildlife conflict

In a bid to tackle the growing human-monkey conflict, the Maharashtra government has launched a specialised mission that offers financial incentives for the safe capture and relocation of monkeys straying into human settlements.

Under a Government Resolution issued by the Revenue and Forest Department on April 22, 2026, the state has fixed a payment of Rs 600 per monkey for individuals involved in rescue operations. The move follows repeated demands from public representatives to revise compensation, citing the risks and logistical challenges involved in capturing the animals.

The initiative primarily targets Rhesus macaques and Hanuman langurs, whose increasing presence in residential areas has been linked to shrinking forest cover and easy access to food from urban waste. Authorities say the encounters have led to crop damage, property loss and, in some cases, threats to human safety.

To ensure the process remains humane and compliant with wildlife protection norms, the government has laid down strict guidelines. Monkeys must be captured using safe methods such as nets or cages, and each operation must be documented with photographic evidence. Once rescued, the animals are to be relocated to forest areas at least 10 kilometres away from human habitations to reduce the likelihood of their return.

Officials stressed that the financial incentive is aimed at providing immediate relief to affected communities while maintaining safeguards for the animals. They added that all existing wildlife protection rules and protocols will continue to apply alongside the new compensation framework.

The government hopes the measure will strike a balance between public safety and conservation, even as long-term solutions to habitat loss remain a challenge.

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