Maharashtra Sets New Rule: Captured Monkeys Must Be Released 10 km Away from Human Habitations
Maharashtra Sets New Rule: Captured Monkeys Must Be Released 10 km Away from Human Habitations
Growing concerns over frequent encounters between monkeys and residents across Maharashtra have prompted the state to issue a detailed Government Resolution (GR) that reshapes how such conflicts must be handled. For the first time, the Forest Department has clearly stated that monkeys caught for causing disturbances must be released no less than 10 kilometres away from human settlements, ensuring they do not easily return to the same areas.
Issued on Tuesday (November 25, 2025), the new directive follows a surge in reports involving macaques and langurs entering homes, damaging property, and, in some cases, injuring people. Officials believe the defined relocation distance will help break the pattern of monkeys returning to populated zones in search of food.
According to the GR, any complaint of monkey-related conflict must be documented by the local municipal body or gram panchayat. The case will then be handed over to the concerned forest range officer, who will verify the number of animals involved and assess the damage caused. After this verification, a trained rescue team will be authorised to capture the monkeys. Each forest division has been directed to maintain its own rescue squad, and licensed, experienced handlers may be appointed when needed.
Captured monkeys will undergo basic medical checks before relocation. To maintain transparency, officials must record photographs and short video clips of each animal. Only after these steps can they be transported to an appropriate forested area located at least 10 kilometres from the nearest human habitation.
The government has also outlined the financial framework for these operations. Rescue teams will receive ₹600 per monkey for up to 10 captures, and ₹300 per monkey for any additional captures, with a ceiling of ₹10,000 per operation. Smaller rescues involving up to five monkeys will include a ₹1,000 travel allowance. Payments will be made through direct benefit transfer after verification by the forest officer.
The Forest Department emphasises that repeated monkey sightings in markets, housing societies, and farmlands have made structured action essential. The GR also highlights the need for close coordination between civic bodies and forest officials, especially in high-density urban areas where such conflicts have escalated rapidly.
Interestingly, this order follows another comprehensive GR issued just a week earlier on the management of stray dogs, which set down strict responsibilities for urban local bodies regarding capture, sterilisation, and relocation.
