Kochi, March 19 – In Kerala, agricultural issues consistently dominate political discourse, and this election is no exception. Farmers are raising concerns ranging from human-wildlife conflict in mountainous regions to paddy procurement issues in Palakkad and Kuttanad.
Farmers say many of their long-standing issues remain unresolved, particularly the increasing number of wild animals raiding crops, which has caused significant distress in high-altitude areas.
Mathew George, who owns eight acres of land near Sultan Bathery and cultivates coffee, pepper, and tapioca, said wildlife attacks have significantly affected his livelihood.
"Monkeys come in large numbers and destroy our coffee. Because of strict wildlife laws, we cannot take preventive measures. Almost 20-30% of the crops are lost due to these attacks," he told