New Delhi: The Kerala forest department, which is already struggling to manage wildlife attacks in light of dwindling funds, got a second blow from the central GST department. 

Periyar and Parambikulam tiger reserves, which promote ecotourism projects, are staring at Rs 8.13 crore GST liability. Periyar Tiger Foundation has a liability of Rs 5,16,70,570 and Parambikulam Foundation has a liability of Rs 2,96,06,200. This was imposed against GST arrears from the 2017-18 period to the 2022-23 period and the fine. The central GST joint commissioner in Kochi issued an order in this regard.

This setback hits harder in the circumstances where the forest department has planned a Rs 620 crore project to prevent wild animal attacks and is awaiting central approval for the same. In the petition submitted to the Centre, the forest department has pointed out that it has to spend Rs 10 crore every year just to compensate victims of wildlife attacks.