Bhubaneswar, Sep 24: To address the growing issue of human-elephant conflict in Odisha, Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia has directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) to formulate a comprehensive long-term plan to mitigate the issue.

The directive comes amid growing concern over the loss of human lives and property due to frequent elephant incursions into human settlements.

Minister Singkhuntia emphasised that the conflict has claimed several precious lives and must be addressed with urgency and foresight.

“Despite taking several measures, the State has been witnessing alarming rate of human casualties and injuries in the man-elephant conflicts and similarly, there are many reported cases of electrocution and poaching of elephants. Every life of human as well as elephant is precious. Hence, there is a necessity for preparing a long-term action plan for the State to manage this man-animal conflicts through multi-pronged strategy, like use of technology, massive public awareness, mapping of vulnerable population on peaceful co-existence, study of animal behaviour and research etc,” the minister stated.

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The Minister further instructed to prepare a long-term action plan, incorporating all the above aspects and best practices followed in other States and countries, which can be a model for all.

The move signals a renewed commitment by the Odisha government to balance ecological preservation with human safety, especially in districts prone to elephant migration and conflict.

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