Daijiworld Media Network - Sullia
Sullia, Dec 15: Farmers in Dakshina Kannada who possess guns for crop protection are facing a new problem following a rule that makes it mandatory to submit documentary proof of having received government compensation for crop loss caused by wild animals in order to renew their gun licences.
The district administration has issued a directive in this regard, and it has come to light that several applications for licence renewal have already been rejected due to the absence of such compensation records.
As per the new instruction, while applying for renewal of licences for guns held for agricultural protection, farmers are required to submit documents showing that they have received compensation from the government or concerned departments for crop damage or destruction caused by wild animals.
Applications submitted without these records are being rejected, and applicants are being instructed to deposit their guns at the concerned police station or with authorised dealers.
Farmers who own guns for crop protection are required to renew their licences once every three years. Until last year, this requirement did not exist. Submitting documents to prove that the applicant was a farmer to the tahsildar or deputy commissioner was considered sufficient. However, this year, farmers say they have been asked to submit compensation-related documents along with other records. They point out that in cases of crop damage caused by animals such as monkeys, no compensation is provided by the government or departments concerned.
In the Malnad and coastal regions, crop damage is not caused only by elephants. Wild boars, monkeys, bison, deer and peacocks also cause extensive destruction. Farmers say monkeys are responsible for the highest amount of crop damage. Although wild animals cause damage in various ways, compensation is paid only in accordance with departmental guidelines, and in many cases, no compensation is granted.
Reacting to the issue, Mangaluru DCF Antony Mariappa said the matter of submitting compensation documents for gun licence renewal had also been discussed at the KDP meeting. He stated that farmers who do not have compensation records can inform the forest department about crop damage caused by wild animals, following which forest officials will visit the spot, conduct a mahazar and submit a report on the extent of wild animal menace.
Dr Arun, district superintendent of police, Dakshina Kannada, said he is aware of the areas in the district where wild animal menace is severe. “Those who genuinely require guns for crop protection will be given licences after proper verification,” he said.
Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Darshan said reports are obtained from the police, revenue and forest departments. “Applicants must submit documents explaining why a gun is essential for them. Further action will be taken based on these reports,” he said.