The Issue of Man and Animal Conflict: A Case of Jhargram District, West Bengal

Man-animal conflict is an ancient concept in which humans and wild animals share the same landscapes and resources for their survival. The study investigates the increasing frequency of conflict incidents between humans and animals in various locations within Jhargram District, a region known for its close proximity to both human settlements and wildlife, particularly elephants. Currently, human-animal conflict plays a significant role in altering the landscapes of the southern region of West Bengal in India, and it also has an impact on the rural economy in Jhargram District. Human population growth and expansion, deforestation, habitat degradation, land use change, and livestock grazing in forest and forest fringe areas are all considered major causes of human-animal conflicts. The study aims to pinpoint the underlying causes and repercussions of human-animal conflicts, as well as suggest management strategies to address the issue. The study reveals that people living in forest fringe areas and close to forest protected areas are often prone to attacks, particularly by elephants and other wild animals like hyenas, wild dogs, wild boars, etc.