Kathmandu— Authorities in Arghakhanchi, Nepal have begun issuing permits for the regulated hunting of barking deer, wild boar, sambar deer and spotted deer as a measure to address increasing crop damage caused by wildlife and reduce human-wildlife conflict. The Division Forest Office announced the initiative on August 23, inviting Nepali citizens to apply for permits in accordance with national parks and wildlife conservation laws. The move aims to balance protecting agricultural livelihoods with preserving local wildlife populations through legally sanctioned hunting of designated species.

Addressing Farmer Concerns

Local farmers in rural Arghakhanchi have long reported significant crop losses due to wildlife, particularly at night when animals enter fields and damage maize, rice, and wheat. This has led to increased tension between communities and the local animal populations. Narayan Dev Bhattarai, chief of the Division Forest Office, explained that the hunting permit process was introduced specifically to alleviate these issues.

Legal Framework for Hunting

Permits are being issued under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973, and its subsequent regulations from 1974, alongside other relevant prevailing laws. Applicants must adhere to strict procedures, including possessing a Nepali citizenship certificate and a firearm license, as well as complying with rules regarding designated hunting areas, timeframes, weapons, and species. Information Officer Kesar Khadka emphasized that all legal requirements must be fulfilled before and during any permitted hunt.

Controlled Hunting Provisions

The forest office has stressed that the new system is not intended to allow unrestricted hunting. Only specified wildlife species can be legally hunted by permit holders, and any unauthorized hunting will result in prosecution. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of basing wildlife management on sound scientific principles and legal frameworks to minimize crop damage while simultaneously ensuring effective conservation efforts.

Applications for hunting permits are being accepted until August 26, with the effectiveness of the program dependent on its proper implementation and adherence to established regulations.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.