How is Assam's 'Gaja Mitra' Tackling Human-Elephant Conflict?

Guwahati, June 2 (NationPress) In a proactive effort to address the rising human-elephant conflict in Assam, local authorities have introduced 'Gaja Mitra', a specialized initiative focused on safeguarding both the local populace and the magnificent elephants of the region.

This initiative is being implemented in five districts that are most impacted -- Goalpara, Baksa, Udalguri, Sonitpur, and Nagaon -- where frequent elephant incursions have resulted in crop destruction, property damage, and, at times, heartbreaking casualties among humans and elephants alike.

The Gaja Mitra program adopts a comprehensive strategy. A primary focus is ecological, aiming to cultivate greener, more inviting forests that provide elephants with sufficient food and migratory pathways in their natural habitat. By revitalizing these environments, officials aspire to minimize the necessity for elephants to invade human territories in search of sustenance.

Moreover, technology plays a crucial role in this initiative. AI-driven camera traps have been installed as vigilant observers throughout the forests, capable of detecting elephant movements and sending immediate notifications to neighboring villages.

This advanced surveillance system is designed to give communities ample time to prepare, respond, or evacuate if the need arises, thereby lowering the chances of unforeseen encounters.

To safeguard agricultural livelihoods, Gaja Mitra places a strong emphasis on 'Protecting Paddy' by bolstering the procurement of crops in areas at high risk. This ensures that farmers do not suffer financial losses when elephants forage in their fields.

Additionally, specialized Gaja Mitra teams composed of local volunteers will serve as community connectors. These teams will promote awareness, react to alerts, and act as critical links between forest officials and villagers, embodying the essence of Jan Bhagidari, or community engagement.

With a combination of ecological restoration, technological innovation, and community involvement, Gaja Mitra marks a significant shift in conservation efforts, prioritizing coexistence over conflict.

The Assam Forest Minister, Chandra Mohan Patowary, recently stated that an average of over 70 individuals and 80 elephants lose their lives each year due to human-elephant confrontations in the state.

An official noted that as more people inhabit the elephants' natural territories, these majestic creatures are compelled to abandon their homes in search of food, leading to conflicts with humans.

He added that there are currently more than 5,700 elephants residing in Assam.