A Lifeline for Injured Wildlife: Maharashtra Sanctions 39.68 Crore for Specialized Animal Rehabilitation

Major Humane Initiative to Treat and Shelter Tigers, Leopards, and Bears Disabled in Human-Wildlife Conflicts

Mumbai, August 12: In a landmark compassionate initiative, the Maharashtra State Government has approved 39.68 crore (39,68,90,000) dedicated to the establishment and operation of specialized wildlife rescue centers and animal infirmaries. Issued under the state scheme for the ‘Establishment of Wildlife Rescue and Care Centers’ (Orphanages/Infirmaries), the funding aims to treat, rehabilitate, and shelter animals critically injured or permanently disabled due to escalating human-wildlife encounters, road accidents, or poaching traps.

For the 2026–27 fiscal year, the state had budgeted an initial outlay of 152.60 crore for this scheme. In this first release, following an extensive review of proposals by the Forest Headquarters in Nagpur, funds were sanctioned to provide immediate medical intervention, specialized cages, dietary supplies, and sanctuary infrastructure for suffering wildlife.

The financial allocation spans across 23 vital forest divisions and tiger reserves state-wide. Priority centers receiving funds include high-density predator habitats such as Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Pench Tiger Reserve, Akola, Chandrapur, Nagpur, Wardha, Junnar, Pune, Satara, and Jalgaon. The disbursement covers operational costs, including staff and handler wages, minor construction of enclosures, medical inventory, and rescue equipment.

To ensure strict compliance and prevent administrative irregularities, the Revenue and Forest Department has mandated rigorous oversight. All works must strictly align with guidelines set by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), the Indian Forest Act (1927), and the Wildlife Protection Act (1972). Controlling officers will face direct accountability for any misuse of funds. This major policy step marks a significant shift toward compassionate conservation, guaranteeing a dignified life and structured medical care for Maharashtra’s most vulnerable fauna.