Project Elephant: Census Phase-I Completed, New Wildlife Recovery Plans Launched

The Union Environment Ministry conducted a comprehensive review of Project Elephant during its 21st steering committee meeting in Dehradun, chaired by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. The review revealed significant developments, including the completion of Phase-I of synchronized elephant population estimation in the Northeastern states, the survey of over 3,400 km of railway lines to identify high-risk areas for elephant-train collisions, and the inclusion of sloth bear and gharial in the Species Recovery Programme. These efforts signal a broader push towards improved wildlife conservation and mitigation of human-wildlife conflict across India.

Why in News?

The 21st steering committee meeting of Project Elephant was held in Dehradun. Phase-I of the elephant population census in the Northeast is now complete. Key initiatives for elephant protection, including railway mapping and DNA profiling, were reviewed. Sloth bear and gharial have been added to India’s Species Recovery Programme.

Project Elephant Review

• Meeting Chaired By: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav.
• Purpose: To assess the progress of Project Elephant, a centrally sponsored scheme for elephant conservation.
• Venue: Dehradun.

Population Estimation Updates

• Phase-I of synchronized elephant census completed in Northeast India.
• 16,500+ dung samples collected for DNA-based population estimation.
• Last official census (2017) estimated 29,964 elephants in India.
• A shelved 2022-23 interim report had noted a 20% decline in population.

Railway Collision Mitigation

• 3,452.4 km of sensitive railway stretches mapped.
• 77 high-risk zones identified to reduce elephant fatalities.
• Between 2019–2024, 73 elephants were killed in train collisions.

Genetic Profiling of Captive Elephants

• 1,911 DNA profiles created across 22 states.
• Aims to support long-term monitoring and conservation strategies.

Human-Elephant Conflict Mitigation

• Regional Action Plans discussed for Southern and Northeastern India.
• Emphasis on coordination with Indian Railways, NHAI, Ministry of Power, and mining developers.

Wildlife Species Recovery

• Sloth bear and gharial recommended for inclusion in Species Recovery Programme.
• Focus on restoring dwindling populations and critical habitats.