Sugarcane & Water Fuel Junnar-Ambegaon Leopard Boom: Smita Rajhans

• * Increased sugarcane farming due to water availability in Junnar-Ambegaon provides a favorable habitat for leopards, leading to their population growth.
• * Leopards, previously in hilly areas, are now frequently seen in residential areas, causing human-leopard conflict.
• * Two adult leopards and two cubs were recently rescued by the forest department in the Manchar area of Ambegaon.
• * The forest department has increased patrolling and urged locals to remain vigilant and report leopard sightings.

Why It Matters: Sugarcane farming in जुन्नर-आंबेगाव boosts leopard numbers, escalating conflict.