Gaja Mitra in Assam | Human-wildlife conflict is a significant issue in Assam, particularly involving elephants. Encroachment on land used by humans and habitat fragmentation are major contributing factors. These conflicts lead to casualties for both humans and elephants, as well as damage to property and livelihoods. To address the escalating human-elephant conflict in Assam, authorities have launched Gaja Mitra, a dedicated initiative aimed at protecting both local communities and the state's majestic elephants.
The five areas where Gaja Mitra will be launched—namely Goalpara, Baksa, Udalguri, Sonitpur, and Nagaon—have been plagued by frequent incursions of elephants, resulting in significant crop damage, loss of property, and, fatalities among both human and animal populations.
To address these challenges effectively, Gaja Mitra will implement a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach. A primary strategy of the programme is ecological restoration, which aims to transform local forests into greener, more welcoming habitats for elephants. This involves not only the replenishment of tree cover, but also the creation of diverse plant life that can provide ample food resources for elephants. By enhancing the forests, the program seeks to establish safe migratory corridors that will allow elephants to navigate their natural ranges without the need to encroach on human settlements in search of sustenance.
In addition to habitat restoration, the initiative will incorporate community engagement and education efforts, fostering collaboration between local residents and wildlife authorities. This cooperative approach aims to improve understanding of elephant behaviour, enhance community preparedness for potential encounters, and develop protective measures for crops. Ultimately, Gaja Mitra endeavours to promote coexistence between humans and elephants, safeguarding the livelihoods of rural communities while ensuring the conservation of these majestic creatures.
As part of the Gaja Mitra programme, AI-powered camera traps have been installed throughout the forests as silent sentinels. These devices can detect elephant movements and send real-time alerts to nearby villages. This intelligent surveillance system provides communities with ample time to prepare, respond, or evacuate if necessary, thereby reducing the risk of unexpected encounters with elephants.