Maharashtra relocates 20 leopards to Gujarat to ease wildlife conflicts

Twenty leopards were moved from Maharashtra to Gujarat in early March 2026. The relocation aimed to ease pressure on the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre in Junnar, where rising human-leopard conflicts had become a concern. Officials described the operation as a necessary step to manage wildlife safety.

The Forest Department began planning the transfer after years of growing incidents in Junnar and Shirur. Attacks on humans and livestock by wild cats had increased over the past decade, pushing authorities to act. The Manikdoh centre, built for 50 leopards, had reached capacity, making relocation essential.

The Central Zoo Authority approved shifting 50 leopards to the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Jamnagar. On March 7, 2026, the first group—10 males and 10 females—was safely transported. A 25-member team, led by veterinary officer Dr Gaurav Srivastava, handled the operation with support from Wildlife SOS staff and forest officials.

Dr Jitendra Ramgaonkar, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, and Ashish Thackeray, Conservator of Forests for Pune, oversaw the process. The move is part of broader efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict in the region. Local authorities have also urged public cooperation in conservation measures to prevent future clashes.

The relocation of these leopards marks a key step in managing wildlife populations in Maharashtra. With the Manikdoh centre now below capacity, officials can focus on further conflict-reduction strategies. The Forest Department continues to monitor the situation and work with communities on long-term solutions.