Himachal Pradesh wildlife department retains all seven monkey sterilisation centres

The Himachal Pradesh wildlife department has decided to keep all seven monkey sterilisation centres operational. This decision forms part of the department's ongoing strategy to curb the rising number of monkeys in tourist hotspots and residential neighborhoods, thereby reducing human‑wildlife conflicts. Officials noted that the centres, spread across districts such as Shimla, Kullu and Mandi, will continue to offer free sterilisation services, funded by the state budget. The department stressed that sterilisation provides a humane alternative to culling, helping maintain ecological balance while safeguarding public safety. The move follows recent reports of increased monkey sightings and related complaints, prompting authorities to sustain rather than scale back the program.