A Conservation Milestone! Elephant Population in Assam Rises to 5,828 in 2024

Guwahati, Jan 2: In a significant development for wildlife conservation, the elephant population in Assam has increased to 5,828, according to the latest population estimation conducted by the Assam Forest Department in 2024.

 

 

 

 

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted that the previous survey, conducted in 2017, had recorded 5,719 elephants. "The increase to 5,828 in 2024 marks a positive wave for wildlife conservation in Assam," he stated. Sharing the update on social media platform X, the Chief Minister praised the Assam Forest Department's efforts in elephant conservation. The survey, conducted after seven years, also noted historical trends in elephant population. According to department records, Assam had 5,246 elephants in 2002, which increased to 5,281 in 2008 and 5,620 in 2011.

 

 

 

 

However, challenges persist. In October 2024, a wild elephant was found dead in a paddy field in the Goroimari area of Biswanath district. Locals discovered the carcass and immediately alerted forest officials and the police. On December 29, Assam took a proactive step to mitigate human-wildlife conflict by forming anti-depredation squads in fringe areas of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Morigaon district. These squads aim to protect both humans and animals, especially during incidents of wildlife encroachment into human habitats.

 

 

 

 

 

The initiative involves locals, particularly farmers, in safeguarding their farmlands from wild animals. The Forest Department, in collaboration with the conservation organization Aranyak, established 13 Anti-Depredation Squads. Each squad includes local residents who have been provided with winter jackets, raincoats, and charging torches to assist in emergency situations during the winter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

India hosts nearly 60% of the world’s wild Asian elephants, making their conservation critical for global biodiversity. Assam alone accounts for a significant portion of this population, contributing immensely to India’s status as a stronghold for Asian elephants. The increase in Assam’s elephant population reflects successful habitat management and anti-conflict measures, which are vital for sustaining the delicate balance between development and biodiversity. This achievement strengthens India’s position as a leader in wildlife conservation, aligning with global commitments such as the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and reinforcing efforts to mitigate the challenges posed by human-wildlife conflicts nationwide.

 

 

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