Guwahati, 05 July (HS): Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabarua paid tribute to Joymala, one of Kaziranga National Park's most celebrated patrol elephants, who died after 34 years of service in wildlife conservation.

Born in 1960, Joymala joined Kaziranga in 1992 and played a key role in anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring and rescue operations. The Minister recalled the iconic 2004 incident when a stray tiger leapt over Joymala during a patrol, a moment captured in a globally acclaimed photograph symbolising the courage of Kaziranga's patrol elephants and mahouts.

Despite prolonged veterinary care, Joymala died on Saturday at the Agoratoli Range. She was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by Kaziranga National Park, with the Minister describing her as a symbol of courage, loyalty and selfless service whose legacy will continue through future generations of patrol elephants.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash