Bhubaneswar, 21 August (H.S.): Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated an International Workshop on Best Practices in Human-Elephant Coexistence in Bhubaneswar, calling for global cooperation to ensure peaceful cohabitation between humans and elephants. The event brought together conservationists, researchers, policymakers, and international delegates to share knowledge and develop sustainable strategies for addressing human-elephant conflict.
In a major announcement, the Chief Minister declared the establishment of the world’s first “Center for Species Survival: Asian Elephant” at Godibari near the Chandaka Wildlife Division in Bhubaneswar. The centre is being developed in collaboration with the IUCN Species Survival Commission, Wildlife Trust of India, and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. CM Majhi stated that the centre would serve as a regional hub for advancing scientific research, shaping policy, and promoting community action in elephant conservation across South and Southeast Asia. He described the initiative as a new global benchmark in conservation efforts for the Asian elephant.
Highlighting Odisha’s cultural and spiritual connection with elephants, the Chief Minister said that the species, recognized as India’s National Heritage Animal, holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Odisha. However, he expressed concern over the increasing human-elephant conflicts resulting from habitat loss due to expanding agriculture and infrastructure. He stressed the importance of moving beyond conflict management to building long-term pathways for coexistence.
The Chief Minister outlined several key initiatives undertaken by the state, including mapping elephant corridors, restoring degraded forests, empowering local conservation groups such as Gaja Saathi and Vana Surakshya Samitis, strengthening anti-poaching measures, and deploying GPS collars, drones, and AI-enabled cameras for real-time tracking of elephant movements. He reaffirmed Odisha’s vision to create a development model where elephants roam freely, forests remain healthy, and communities live in harmony with wildlife—a model he believes will inspire global conservation strategies.
Speaking at the event, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Shri Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia emphasized Odisha’s transition from a protection-centric approach to a broader philosophy of coexistence, focusing on habitat restoration and community empowerment.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
