Human-elephant conflict (HEC) is a growing problem in Assam, with increasing numbers of elephants entering human settlements, damaging crops and infrastructure, and sometimes even injuring or killing people. To tackle this issue, the non-profit organization Aaranyak has formed a network of local communities called the Elephant Conservation Network (ECN).
ECN: A Unique Initiative
The ECN initiative involves the formation of local community groups in conflict hotspots across Udalguri, Baksa, and Goalpara districts. The ECN members, mostly village youths, are educated about elephant ecology and behavior, and effective mitigation measures. They are trained to monitor and record HEC incidents and assist in formulating and implementing mitigation strategies.
The ECN members also help distribute mitigation tools such as rechargeable spotlights, which are essential for early detection and deterrence of elephants. These spotlights help alert villagers of approaching elephants, which can be particularly helpful during nighttime, reducing the risk of sudden elephant encounters.
The ECN initiative has not only raised awareness among the locals about elephant conservation but also ensured active participation in mitigating human-elephant conflict. It has improved coexistence with elephants by making communication and early warning more efficient, reducing the frequency and intensity of conflicts.
US Fish and Wildlife Service’s Support
The unique initiative is supported by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), which has been funding the ECN initiative since 2015. The USFWS has provided technical and financial support for the training of ECN members and the distribution of mitigation tools.
According to USFWS officials, the ECN initiative has proved to be a model for addressing HEC, and the USFWS is considering replicating the initiative in other parts of the world where human-elephant conflict is a growing concern.
Benefits of the ECN Initiative
The ECN initiative has several benefits, not only for the local communities but also for the elephants. By involving the locals in elephant conservation, it has helped promote a sense of ownership and responsibility for their well-being. This, in turn, has helped reduce conflicts and improve coexistence with elephants.
The ECN initiative has also helped reduce the number of elephant deaths caused by retaliatory killing, which is a common occurrence in areas where HEC is prevalent. The mitigation measures employed by the ECN members have been effective in keeping elephants away from human settlements, reducing the risk of conflict.
