SHILLONG, July 5: The NPP Ranikor Block Unit has appealed to the state government for urgent intervention to assist farmers hit by rising human-elephant conflict in South West Khasi Hills. The unit reported that many cultivators have suffered heavy financial losses and are unable to sell their produce after wild elephants destroyed their crops.
NPP Ranikor Block Unit president Nelbi T Sangma urged the government to conduct immediate surveys to assess the extent of damage across various villages under the Ranikor C&RD Block. He stated that repeated raids by elephant herds have devastated plantations and orchards, severely impacting livelihoods.
“Many farmers are unable to sell their produce this year because their crops have been destroyed. This has caused significant financial distress for families dependent on agriculture,” Sangma said.
He further alleged that despite repeated complaints from villagers, the Forest department has yet to carry out proper assessments. “Authorities were notified, but nobody has come to verify the damages. It is essential for officials to visit the affected areas to ensure compensation reaches the beneficiaries,” he added.
Sangma noted that the issue was previously raised with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma during a ‘CM Connect’ programme. While the Chief Minister had directed departments to examine the matter and explore long-term mitigation measures, the situation remains dire for local residents.
The appeal follows increasing incidents of conflict in villages such as Phutkroh, Mawpud, Rajai, Panchering, Puksora, and Largao. Crops including jackfruit, pineapple, betel nut, and betel leaf—all vital income sources—have been targeted.
According to villagers, the situation has worsened as elephants move closer to human settlements. Areas such as Nongnah, Balat, and Ranikor, where elephant presence was once rare, are now witnessing frequent activity.
