Sun Jan 12 13:33:29 UTC 2025: ## Farmers Reject New Wild Boar Culling Plan as Unworkable
**Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, January 12, 2025** – A new government order permitting the regulated culling of wild boars in Virudhunagar district to protect farmlands has been met with strong criticism from farmers, who deem it impractical. The order, issued by the Department of Forests, mandates that only specially trained forest personnel can participate in the cull.
Farmers argue that the forest department is severely understaffed and lacks the resources to effectively implement the plan. The wild boar infestation extends far beyond the Western Ghats region, affecting vast areas including Kariyapatti, Aruppukottai, and Sattur taluks. This widespread infestation, coupled with limited personnel, makes regulated culling infeasible in the near future, they contend.
N.A. Ramachandra Raja, district president of Tamizhaga Vivasayigal Sangam, called the G.O. an “eye-wash,” designed to placate agitated farmers. R. Ram Pandian, district president of Cauvery Vaigai Gundar Kiruthumal Irrigation Farmers Federation, highlighted the significant presence of wild boars in irrigation tanks, riverbeds, and interior areas.
Crop damage is extensive, with an estimated 10% of farmland in the district affected. The district administration estimates crop losses of approximately 18,000 hectares over the past two years, totaling ₹31.92 crore in compensation over the past decade. Farmers also express concerns for their personal safety due to the animals’ aggressive nature. The proliferation of Prosopis juliflora bushes provides ample breeding grounds for the boars.
Farmers are demanding the formation of committees comprising farmers and forest officials to address the issue urgently. They also suggest involving licensed ex-servicemen in the culling efforts. The situation underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to mitigate the damaging impact of wild boar populations on agriculture and farmers’ livelihoods in Virudhunagar.
First Piper 