Six persons were arrested in Karnataka for allegedly poaching a deer, highlighting a suspected network supplying illegally hunted venison to Hyderabad. Recent cases across Telangana and Maharashtra have raised concerns among wildlife officials over poachers, intermediaries and alleged city-based buyers.
Telangana's deemed forest identification survey is yet to gain momentum, with just over two months left to submit a report to the Centre. The delay, caused by initial committee formation issues, puts pressure on the newly reconstituted expert panel
The Karnataka Forest Department has permitted the use of 33-year-old temple elephant Lakshmi from Tumkur for the Bonalu processions in Hyderabad. She will participate in major events including the Ujjaini Mahankali Temple procession, beginning July 14 through July 21.