Andhra Launches Hanuman Project to Protect Wildlife

In an important step to reduce clashes between people and wild animals, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Forest and Environment Minister Pawan Kalyan launched the “Hanuman” project on Tuesday, March 3.

The programme was unveiled at the Andhra Pradesh Special Police (APSP) 6th Battalion Parade Grounds in Mangalagiri. The full name of the initiative is Healing and Nurturing Units for Monitoring, Aid and Nursing of Wildlife (HANUMAN).

The project aims to protect both wildlife living in forests and people living in nearby rural areas. In recent years, cases of wild animals entering villages and farms have increased, leading to injuries, crop damage, and sometimes loss of life. The new initiative is designed to prevent such incidents and respond quickly when they happen.

Speaking at the event, Pawan Kalyan said the state government is changing its approach. Instead of reacting only after an incident occurs, the government now wants to focus on prevention, coordination, and faster action.

As part of the launch, more than 100 specially equipped vehicles were flagged off. These include Rapid Response and Rescue units and wildlife ambulances. The vehicles are fitted with equipment to safely capture, treat, and relocate animals if needed. Specially trained teams will operate these units and work closely with forest officials, police, and local communities.

The deputy chief minister described the project as a scientific and organized system to reduce conflict between expanding human settlements and shrinking natural habitats. He said that as villages and towns grow closer to forest areas, better planning and monitoring are necessary to ensure safety for both humans and animals.

Officials said the Hanuman project will also focus on awareness campaigns, use of technology such as tracking systems, and quick communication networks to alert villagers about animal movements.

The initiative marks a major step in Andhra Pradesh’s wildlife management strategy, with the goal of creating a safer environment for both rural communities and forest wildlife.