Ahmedabad begins first-ever Monkey census; feeding primates now punishable

Facing a surge in monkey-related incidents across the city, authorities in Ahmedabad have reportedly initiated their first comprehensive monkey census, aiming to address what officials describe as an escalating urban wildlife challenge.

As per reports, the forest department has started a detailed pre-census survey to track monkey populations, map high-conflict zones, and study the causes behind increasing encounters between humans and primates. The goal is to shift from a reactive, complaint-driven rescue system to a more structured, data-led approach.

This move follows growing concern over the common practice of feeding monkeys near temples, markets, residential societies, and open spaces. Officials now warn that such actions often rooted in religious sentiment are contributing to aggressive behavior, dependency on humans, and repeated disturbances. Feeding monkeys has now been classified as an offence.

As part of the initial phase, areas under the Amdavad Municipal Corporation have been divided into zones. Residents are being asked to participate by completing a detailed 27-point survey shared via Google Forms. The questionnaire seeks inputs on troop size, feeding spots, frequency of sightings, nuisance levels, waste management issues, and movement patterns.

A pilot count will be conducted after the survey to determine the most effective enumeration method before rolling out the full-scale census.

The project is being carried out by the Ahmedabad Social Forestry Circle under researcher Deepa Gavli. The proposal, put forward by Deputy Conservator of Forests Minal Jani, has received approval from the Gujarat forest department.