Context: Synchronised elephant count exercise concludes in south Karnataka region

Source: The Hindu

The three-day elephant census as a mandate prescribed by the Interstate Coordination Committee charter concluded and the results are expected to indicate the elephant population trends in South Karnataka region.

The census is done with block sampling or direct count exercise followed by line transect exercise. The water-hole count exercise to assess sex distribution and age.

The census exercise will aid in resolving human-elephant conflicts that are on an upward trend, especially in forests bordering the three south States of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Model Question:

Discuss the objectives and achievements of Project Elephant. What are the major challenges in elephant conservation in India, and suggest measures to overcome them.

Model Answer:

Project Elephant was launched by the Government of India in 1992 to ensure the long-term survival of the Asian elephant in its natural habitats. It is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at protecting elephants, their habitats, and migration corridors.

Objectives of Project Elephant:

1. Protection of elephants from poaching and unnatural deaths.
2. Habitat improvement and maintenance of elephant corridors.
3. Addressing human-elephant conflict (HEC).
4. Research, monitoring, and veterinary care.
5. Promoting eco-development and community participation.

Achievements:

1. 33 Elephant Reserves across 14 states covering over 80,000 sq km.
2. Launch of Gaj Yatra and Haathi Mere Saathi campaigns for awareness.
3. Implementation of MIKE Programme (Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants) under CITES in selected sites.
4. Use of technology such as e-surveillance, radio collars, and early warning systems in conflict-prone areas.

Challenges:

1. Habitat fragmentation due to linear infrastructure (roads, railways).
2. Human-elephant conflict, especially in northeastern and southern states.
3. Poaching for ivory and other illegal wildlife trade.
4. Lack of inter-state coordination on elephant migration corridors.
5. Insufficient community involvement and compensation mechanisms.

Way Forward:

1. Strengthen elephant corridors through legal protection and land acquisition.
2. Promote landscape-level planning and eco-sensitive infrastructure.
3. Use of early warning systems, SMS alerts, and community vigilance teams.
4. Implement National Elephant Action Plan (NEAP) with clear timelines.
5. Ensure community participation through awareness and incentives.

Project Elephant has made significant strides in elephant conservation, yet escalating conflicts and habitat pressures demand a multi-pronged and participatory approach. Sustained political will, scientific management, and grassroots involvement are key to securing India’s elephants.