Gandhinagar: In a decision aimed at protecting both Asiatic lions and farmers, the Gujarat government has announced a 122% increase in assistance for scaffolding and paddy platforms constructed in farmlands, and a 40% hike in assistance for parapet walls around open wells.

Under the revised scheme of the Forest and Environment Department, the government has raised the estimated cost of constructing scaffolding platforms in fields from ₹17,300 to ₹38,428. Of this, 75% (₹28,821) will now be provided as government assistance, compared to the earlier aid of ₹12,975.

This represents an increase of ₹15,846 per platform, amounting to a 122% hike in financial support to farmers. These scaffolds, built in lion-prone areas, help farmers guard their crops and deter wildlife without harming the animals.

To prevent accidental deaths or injuries of lions and other wild animals that fall into open wells, the state government has also enhanced the subsidy for building parapet walls.

Previously, the estimated cost per parapet wall was ₹16,000, with the government contributing 90% (₹14,400). The new provision increases the estimated cost to ₹22,510, and the government’s contribution to ₹20,259 per well — a 40% increase.

The scheme, implemented since 2007, covers open wells across the Gir and Greater Gir regions where lions often roam into agricultural zones. Farmers contribute only 10% of the cost, while the government bears the rest.

The decision was taken under the guidance of Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera and Minister of State Mukeshbhai Patel, with the broader objective of reducing human-wildlife conflict and safeguarding the Asiatic lion population, which thrives exclusively in Gujarat.

The population of Asiatic lions, the pride of Gujarat, has been steadily rising due to continuous conservation efforts and community participation. However, with lions expanding their territory beyond Gir forests into adjoining revenue areas, incidents of conflict and accidental deaths have increased — prompting stronger protective measures.

Officials said these revised schemes are expected to encourage more farmers to adopt safety infrastructure, ensuring better protection for both humans and lions while promoting peaceful coexistence in the region.