Tripura, 18 Sep 2026: Tripura Minister and Jolaibari MLA Shukla Charan Noatia inspected agricultural land severely damaged by a herd of wild elephants in Akhiram Para, under Srikantabari Panchayat in Jolaibari Block, on Saturday.
The inspection followed reports of extensive crop damage suffered by farmer Satya Mohan Tripura, whose land includes palm oil, areca nut and rubber plantations, along with jhum cultivation and other agricultural crops.
According to the minister, a herd of approximately 10–15 wild elephants entered the farmland on Thursday evening, September 17, damaging jhum crops, banana plants, pineapples and other agricultural produce. The elephants also destroyed a temporary shelter used by the farmer and his family during cultivation. Approximately one kani of paddy reportedly remains unharvested.
Minister Noatia visited the affected area with local representatives and officials from the Forest, Agriculture and Horticulture departments. Jolaibari Block Village Council Chairman Ashok Mog and other officials were present during the inspection.
Minister Assures Farmer of Government Assistance
Speaking to the media, Minister Shukla Charan Noatia said the extent of the damage was being assessed and assured the affected farmer that necessary steps would be taken to facilitate government compensation and assistance in accordance with applicable rules.
He stated that he would discuss the matter with Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma and the concerned officials of the Agriculture, Horticulture and Forest departments to ensure that the affected farmers receive appropriate support.
The minister also urged the Forest Department to strengthen awareness programmes among local communities and make arrangements for resources to safely drive away wild elephants.
Recurring Human–Elephant Conflict Raises Concern
Minister Noatia highlighted that wild elephant attacks have become a recurring problem in the area, affecting agricultural land in Srikantabari, Birendranagar and Tuirama panchayats every year.
He attributed the increasing human–wildlife conflict, in part, to the depletion of forest resources and the resulting shortage of food for wild animals. He appealed to the government and the public to protect forests and natural resources to help reduce such incidents.
The minister reiterated his assurance that the affected farmer would be supported through coordination with the concerned departments.
