What is Hanuman Project? Pawan Kalyan launches initiative to reduce human–wildlife clashes in AP
Under the initiative, 93 Rapid Response and Rescue vehicles and 7 wildlife ambulances equipped with medical facilities have been deployed across the State
By Sistla Dakshina Murthy
Amaravati: In a major step towards mitigating rising human-wildlife conflict, Deputy Chief Minister and Forest and Environment Minister Pawan Kalyan on Tuesday launched the ‘Hanuman Project’, a comprehensive, technology-driven initiative aimed at protecting both people and wildlife.
During 2025–26, a total of 2,107 human-wildlife conflict cases were reported across the State.
Ecological balance crucial for humans
The project, titled ‘Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nursing of Wildlife’ (HANUMAN), was inaugurated at the APSP 6th Battalion Parade Grounds in Mangalagiri with the flagging off of over 100 specialised rapid response and rescue vehicles.
Speaking at the event, Pawan Kalyan said India believes in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world as one family — where wildlife is an integral part of ecological balance and human survival.
“The Hanuman Project has been conceptualised as a scientific and technological intervention to reduce and prevent human-wildlife conflict while ensuring conservation,” he said.
100+ specialised vehicles deployed
Under the initiative, 93 Rapid Response and Rescue vehicles and 7 wildlife ambulances equipped with medical facilities have been deployed across the State.
Additionally, four Wildlife Rescue and Treatment Centres have been set up at Visakhapatnam, Rajamahendravaram, Tirupati and Byrluti, supported by 19 rapid response teams.
Each vehicle will be staffed by a Forest Range Officer, veterinary personnel, tribal helpers and para-veterinarians. At the village level, specially trained Wildlife Rakshaks (VAJRA teams) are being prepared and equipped with rescue kits to handle incidents involving snakes and other wildlife locally.
Compensation increased to Rs 10 lakh
Highlighting the State government’s commitment, the Deputy Chief Minister said compensation for deaths due to wildlife attacks has been increased from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, while assistance for injuries has been raised to Rs 2 lakh. Compensation for livestock losses will be paid as per market value.
During 2025–26, a total of 2,107 human-wildlife conflict cases were reported across the State, with nearly Rs 4 crore disbursed as relief.
Successful Kumki operations
Districts such as Chittoor, Srikakulam and Parvathipuram Manyam have witnessed severe elephant-related conflicts. In coordination with the Karnataka government, four trained Kumki elephants were brought in, and eight operations have been successfully completed so far to drive away rogue elephants and safeguard crops and habitations.
AI-based monitoring and digital integration
The Forest Department has introduced AI-based monitoring systems on a pilot basis to track wildlife movement and issue early warnings to forest-fringe villages.
A dedicated Hanuman digital app and advanced GPS tracking system were also launched to ensure real-time response and coordination among departments including Panchayat Raj, Agriculture, Revenue and Police.
Pawan Kalyan appreciated frontline forest staff and NGOs such as the World Wildlife Fund, Hyderabad Tiger Conservation Society and Eastern Ghats Conservation Society for their support.
“Let us coexist and progress together while ensuring safety for both people and wildlife,” he said.
