Kumki elephants Jayanth and Abhimanyu deployed to curb human-elephant conflict

The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department is set to deploy two trained Kumki elephants, Jayanth and Abhimanyu, to tackle the rising human-elephant conflict in the Parvathipuram-Manyam district. The decision follows directives from Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Forests and Environment K. Pawan Kalyan, aiming to address the growing concerns of villagers living along the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha border.

Jayanth, trained at the Nanniyal elephant camp in Andhra Pradesh, and Abhimanyu, brought from Karnataka, have been chosen for their proven expertise in managing wild elephant situations. Both elephants have successfully participated in six major operations, including the recent capture of a lone wild elephant near Palamaner. Their relocation from the Palamaner camp to the Guchchimi camp in Manyam district is expected to bring immediate relief to affected communities.

The region has been grappling with frequent incursions of wild elephant herds into human settlements, leading to damaged crops, property, and safety concerns for locals. Forest officials attribute these incidents to habitat fragmentation, shrinking forest cover, and dwindling food and water resources in nearby forest areas. The deployment of Jayanth and Abhimanyu is seen as a strategic step to mitigate these challenges.

Officials expressed confidence in the duo’s ability to handle such situations effectively, given their extensive training and operational experience. “Their coordination and proven performance make them ideal for this mission,” a senior official remarked. The move is expected to alleviate the hardships faced by villagers and reduce the threat posed by wild elephants in the area.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to addressing human-wildlife conflicts and preserving the delicate balance between conservation and community welfare.