In landscapes like Ranthambhore and Kailadevi, where dense human populations share space with thriving wildlife, conflict is not an exception—it is an inevitability. A tiger taking a buffalo, or a leopard raiding a goat pen, is more than just an economic loss. For forest-edge families, it is deeply emotional, disruptive, and potentially dangerous.

Human–wildlife conflict is hardest to manage where both densities of people and predators are high. Here, quick but thoughtful interventions are essential: not only to provide relief but also to prevent retaliation and ensure long-term coexistence.

In August 2024, Tiger Watch launched the Cattle Compensation Fund in Dholpur–Karauli Tiger Reserve. The idea was simple: while government compensation schemes exist, their processing often takes months and requires complex paperwork. Families in crisis needed something different—a rapid, community-based solution.

Our approach:

1. Verify the incident swiftly with on-ground teams.
2. Provide immediate compensation for lost livestock.
3. Support the family through the crisis, restoring faith in conservation.

By March 2025, with support from Abercrombie & Kent India, the program expanded to Kailadevi Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Rajasthan’s most sensitive conflict zones. Together with Sud Chemie India Pvt. Ltd., which supports the Dholpur program, the fund is steadily building trust between local communities, Tiger Watch, and the Forest Department.

In just 2–3 days of a verified loss, families receive compensation—not just money, but assurance that they are not alone when the wild crosses into their lives.

What We Cover

We understand the critical role livestock plays in the livelihoods of local communities. Our fund offers compensation for the following livestock killed or fatally injured by leopards or tigers:

• Cows
• Goats
• Buffaloes
• Sheep

Eligibility & Process

• Livestock owners experiencing a loss due to a leopard or tiger attack should report the incident to both the Gram Panchayat and Tiger Watch as soon as possible.
• Our team will work closely with the affected family to verify the claim and assess the extent of the loss.
• Once verified, compensation will be disbursed directly to the affected livestock owner within the stipulated timeframe.

Why It Matters

• Prevents revenge killings of big cats.
• Builds trust and empathy by responding quickly to community needs.
• Enhances capacity of forest staff and VWVs with better tools and training.
• Introduces humane, science-based rescue methods.
• Reduces pressure on understaffed, under-equipped government teams.

“Every buffalo compensated, every tiger tracked, and every rescue done safely is a step towards coexistence.”