Sat Dec 13 06:24:23 UTC 2025: ## Pawar Scoffs at Goat Release Plan to Curb Leopard Attacks in Maharashtra
Nagpur, Maharashtra – December 13, 2025 – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has publicly dismissed a suggestion from State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik to release goats into forests as a means of deterring leopards from entering human settlements. Pawar, in an informal discussion with reporters Saturday, quipped that villagers would likely prey on the goats alongside the leopards.
Naik’s controversial proposal was reportedly aimed at reducing the state’s financial burden of compensating victims of leopard attacks. Naik had suggested releasing goats worth ₹1 crore into the forest, arguing it would be a more cost-effective approach than paying ₹1 crore compensation for each of the four human fatalities.
Pawar acknowledged the escalating issue of human-leopard conflict in Maharashtra, particularly in sugarcane-growing regions where leopards are breeding. While the government is exploring solutions, he noted limitations. He revealed that the Vantara zoo can only accommodate 50 of the estimated 2,000 leopards in the state, necessitating alternative strategies.
Sterilization was mentioned as a potential long-term solution, though Pawar cautioned that its effects would be gradual and wouldn’t immediately stop leopards from hunting. He assured the public that the government is actively working to expand the capacity of existing leopard rescue centers and establish new facilities to address the problem. The State Forest Department has identified Ahilyanagar, Pune, and Nashik districts as hotspots for leopard-related incidents.
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