Bhubaneswar: Eight MLAs from elephant-rich regions on Wednesday shared their thoughts on elephant habitat management by stressing on the need for use of AI to track elephant movement and plantation of bamboo to improve elephant fodder and habitat at a state-level function organised on World Elephant Day here on Wednesday.“There is a need for wider use of artificial intelligence and advanced technology to mitigate man-elephant conflict. A comprehensive mining master plan is required for proper planning of forest diversion proposals,” said Chhendipada MLA Agasti Behera.Forest minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia reiterated the govt’s commitment to strengthen elephant conservation through a science-based, technology-enabled and community-centric approach. “There is a need to coordinate efforts among govt departments, elected representatives, frontline personnel and local communities to ensure the safety of both people and elephants. Govt is exploring all possible avenues to provide accidental death insurance coverage to gaja sathis, who work at the forefront of elephant conservation and play a vital role in ensuring human–elephant coexistence,” the minister said.Nandankanan Zoological Park celebrated the day by preparing a special feast of fruits for the four resident pachyderms. The celebration was a heartwarming sight for visitors, who gathered to witness the majestic creatures relishing their treats. The elephants, Basanti, Hira, Asha and Lisha, received nutritious fruit treats designed to encourage natural feeding behavior, zoo officials said.“The event was part of a broader initiative to raise awareness about elephant conservation and the challenges these gentle giants face, such as habitat loss and poaching. Nandankanan, renowned for its dedication to wildlife care since 1972, was instrumental in the rescue and rehabilitation of elephants across the state,” said zoo deputy director Pradeep Mirase.The zoo’s dedicated mahouts were also felicitated for their invaluable contribution to elephant care and management. School students were given a tour of the elephant enclosure from the viewers’ side to observe the elephants and understand their biology.At Chandaka, eight rescued elephants were treated to a special feeding session at their state-of-the-art rescue centre, which houses 45 wild elephants. Mahouts were felicitated too. Four publications were released, including Fodder Plants of Asian Elephants and a brochure.
