Indra Hang seeks Centre’s support on human-wildlife conflict and eco-tourism in Sikkim

GANGTOK, : Lok Sabha MP (Sikkim) Indra Hang Subba met Union Environment & Forest minister Bhupendra Yadav at his Parliament office, New Delhi. He submitted a detailed memorandum seeking urgent intervention from the ministry on key livelihood concerns of the people dwelling in the peripheral villages around the forest area, a press release on Friday informs.

During the meeting, the Lok Sabha MP raised the growing issue of man-animal conflict in the peripheral villages adjoining protected forest areas of Sikkim. He highlighted the increasing incidents of crop depredation and threats to human safety, which have severely impacted rural livelihoods and led to a decline in active farming in several areas.

He urged the ministry to formulate a special programme for Sikkim focusing on scientific mitigation measures, strengthened compensation mechanisms, preventive infrastructure, and community-based conservation initiatives to safeguard both farmers’ interests and wildlife, the release mentions.

Indra Hang also brought attention to the fact that more than 40 percent of Sikkim’s total geographical area falls under protected forest cover. While reaffirming the State’s strong commitment to conservation, he emphasised the need for a special financial package to promote sustainable forest-based eco-tourism. He proposed the development of regulated trekking and hiking trails, eco-friendly camping sites, interpretation centres, and community-led tourism initiatives to generate livelihood opportunities while reinforcing conservation efforts.

The Union minister gave a patient hearing to the concerns raised and assured that the matter would be examined positively.

Indra Hang expressed hope for focused support from the Ministry, the release mentions.