Collective intervention essential to address human-wildlife conflict: Priyanka Gandhi

She was responding to questions from media persons at Munderi in Nilambur.

Gandhi said human-wildlife conflict was a complex issue and could not be resolved immediately. Several factors contributed to the problem, she said.

A meeting involving experts and all concerned stakeholders will be held this week to discuss solutions to the issue, she said, adding that a long-term solution could be found only through the collective efforts of government agencies, local communities and all other stakeholders.

She also highlighted the difficulties faced by MGNREGA workers in remote and tribal areas due to the lack of mobile network connectivity.

Workers are required to upload work-related details and photographs to the portal twice a day. However, several remote areas do not have mobile towers or adequate network connectivity. At times, technical issues with the portal also compound the problem. The situation becomes particularly difficult for workers who do not even have smartphones, she said.

Gandhi said she had already raised the issue with the concerned ministry and had spoken to the Union Minister and submitted a note on the matter.

The portal system needs to be modified or its requirements reviewed, taking into account the ground realities in remote and tribal areas, she said.

She further added that she would raise the issue again and meet officials responsible for the portal to explain the difficulties being faced by workers.

She also said local residents had raised the demand for a bridge in the area and assured that efforts would be made to provide necessary assistance to address their other basic needs.

Priyanka Gandhi met the family of Sajitha, who died in the flash flood at T.K. Nagar, at their home in Munderi Appankap Nagar and offered condolences before speaking to the media. Nilambur MLA Aryadan Shoukath accompanied her. (ANI)