Funds for voluntary relocation of Karnataka's Bhimgad sanctuary villages to be allocated shortly
Hubballi: Karnataka's Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Eshwar B. Khandre has assured the forest dwellers of Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary in Belagavi district that the government will soon allocate funds for their voluntary relocation.
Speaking to the people of Talewadi, one of the 13 hamlets situated in the sanctuary in Khanapur taluk, Khandre said that each family would receive Rs 15 lakh as compensation for rehabilitation, in line with the guidelines set by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), as reported by Deccan Herald on Wednesday.
The 13 settlements within the pristine forest of Bhimgad is a home to 754 families comprising 3,059 people. This region, a critical tiger corridor, connects the Kali Tiger Reserve with Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, Mollem National Park and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. It is also a critical habitat for tigers, leopards, endangered species like Wroughton’s free-tailed bat, among others.
While many residents of several hamlets have expressed a willingness to relocate due to inadequate basic facilities such as healthcare, education, and road connectivity, the rehabilitation work has been pending for want of funds.
Sources in the department informed the Deccan Herald that the minister advised the villagers to use the compensation funds effectively, either to purchase alternative agricultural land in and around Khanapur or to deposit the amount in banks. Furthermore, he directed the forest department to provide full support to the relocating families throughout the process, ensuring a smooth transition to their new life.
Belagavi’s Deputy Conservator of Forest, Maria Christu Raja, told DH that the talks with Talewadi residents were productive. While several hamlets have shown interest in relocating, applications have only been received from Talewadi. Officials hope that the successful relocation of Talewadi will serve as a model, encouraging other hamlet residents to follow suit.
The relocation of Talewadi will free up more than 1,000 hectares of inviolate space, providing critical habitat for the region's wildlife.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
US–Iran first round direct talks conclude in Islamabad: Report
_vb_48.jpeg)
The first round of direct talks between the United States and Iran, held in Islamabad, has concluded, Al Jazeera reported citing sources close to the development.
According to the report, following the discussions, delegations from both sides agreed to exchange written documents, a move aimed at ensuring clarity and consensus on the understandings reached during the meeting.
Both the Iranian and US delegations arrived in Islamabad on Saturday, April 11, amid high security for the peace talks.
_vb_17.jpeg)
