Kerala Revised Budget allocates ₹243.80 crore for forest protection; steps intensified to tackle human-wildlife conflict

The Revised Budget for 2026-27 presented by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Friday (June 19) allocated ₹243.80 crore for forest and wildlife protection activities. A strong focus has been assured towards addressing human-wildlife conflict in the State’s hilly regions.

Acknowledging that farmers and residents in such regions continue to face threats from wild animal attacks, Mr. Satheesan announced that a scientific census of tigers and leopards in Kerala will be conducted as part of mitigation measures, and legally permissible steps would be adopted for their relocation.

The government will also utilise modern technology to reduce human-wildlife conflict. An amount of ₹192.20 crore has been allocated for the purpose. Steps have also been pledged to deploy more rapid response teams (RRTs) in areas severely affected by wildlife threats.

An allocation of ₹22.02 crore has been allocated for various activities in the environment sector. The government assures a ‘zero tolerance’ policy to prevent air, water, land and light pollution in the State.

The Budget also states that Kerala will be made a completely carbon-neutral State by 2050. Agricultural practices that increase soil carbon and carbon sequestration will be promoted, and a State-level mechanism will be established to help farmers claim carbon credits and receive direct financial benefits.