The Centre has given in-principle approval of Rs 25 crore for farm fencing in Uttarakhand. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan conveyed this in a letter to Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The Chief Minister’s Office shared the news on 23 March 2026. Notably, the fencing aims to protect crops from wild animals. So, the decision offers relief to farmers who lose harvests to wildlife.
Chouhan’s Letter to Dhami
Earlier, Dhami had sought financial help from Chouhan for farm fencing. In response, the Union Agriculture Minister approved the proposal in principle. Dhami then thanked Chouhan for the support. He said the step will relieve farmers of losses from wild animal activity. Also, state Agriculture Minister Ganesh Joshi confirmed the Rs 25 crore sanction, Amar Ujala reported.
Crops at Risk from Wildlife
Wild animals often damage crops, property and lives in Uttarakhand. In December 2025, the state named elephants, nilgai, bears, leopards and monkeys among the main problem animals. Moreover, wild boars and langurs also add to the pressure. Therefore, physical barriers around fields form a key line of defence.
Earlier Steps Against Human-Wildlife Conflict
On 20 December 2025, Dhami announced solar fencing and sensor-based alert systems in conflict-prone areas. He also announced wildlife sterilisation centres in every district under the Forest Department. These centres target langurs, monkeys, wild boars and bears. In addition, rescue and rehabilitation centres will come up in all districts. Further, the Forest Department got an extra Rs 5 crore for nets, cages and tranquilising equipment.
About Human-Wildlife Conflict
Human-wildlife conflict occurs when people and wild animals compete for space and food. In hill states, forests lie close to farms and villages. Hence, crop raids and animal attacks occur often. Meanwhile, the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 governs how officials handle problem animals.
Farm Fencing: Key Facts for Revision
- Amount: Rs 25 crore (in-principle approval)
- Approved by: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
- Announced: 23 March 2026, through the Chief Minister’s Office
- Purpose: Protect crops from wild animals
- Related steps: Solar fencing, sterilisation centres and rescue centres (December 2025)
- Extra Forest Department funds: Rs 5 crore for nets, cages and equipment
Why Farm Fencing Matters for UKPSC
Notably, human-wildlife conflict is a live issue in Uttarakhand’s hill economy. So, remember the Rs 25 crore approval, the minister’s letter and the earlier solar fencing plan. Also, link this step with migration and farm distress in the hills. For official updates, also visit Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Next, for a related story, read about the Khet Bachao Abhiyan in Uttarakhand. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
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