Andhra Pradesh Launches Project 'Hanuman'

Project 'Hanuman' is an acronym for Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nursing of Wildlife. The initiative, launched by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, is a direct response to rising conflicts involving elephants, snakes, and other animals in districts like Chittoor, Srikakulam, and Parvathipuram Manyam. In the 2025-26 period alone, Andhra Pradesh recorded over 2,100 human-wildlife conflict cases, leading to the disbursement of nearly ₹4 crore in compensation. Historically, the state has seen an average of 30 human deaths annually from such conflicts. The project deploys a significant ground force, including 100 GPS-enabled vehicles—93 for rapid response and seven fully equipped wildlife ambulances. This is supported by four Wildlife Rescue and Treatment Centres in Visakhapatnam, Rajamahendravaram, Tirupati, and Byrluti, along with 19 rapid response teams positioned across the state. A key technological component is the use of AI-based monitoring systems to track wildlife movement and provide early warnings to villages. A dedicated 'Hanuman' digital app and GPS tracking systems have also been launched to ensure real-time coordination among the response units. To enhance support for affected citizens, the ex gratia amount for deaths caused by wild animal attacks has been doubled from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh. Compensation for injuries has also been increased to ₹2 lakh. At the village level, new specialized teams are being formed. 'Vajra' teams, comprised of trained wildlife protectors, will be equipped to handle local incidents, while 'Sarpa Mitras' will focus on safely rescuing snakes and raising community awareness. To tackle issues with wild elephants specifically, the state has brought in four trained 'Kumki' elephants from Karnataka. These elephants have already been used to successfully conduct eight operations, guiding wild herds away from human settlements and agricultural land.