- Forest Minister inaugurated the national workshop.
- ‘Experts will provide training on scientific management’
Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap today inaugurated a two-day national workshop on elephant conservation and reducing human-elephant conflict in Chhattisgarh via virtual medium from his residence office. Forest Force Chief Shri Arun Kumar Pandey was also present on the occasion. Wildlife experts, scientists, veterinarians, and forest officials from across the country participated in the workshop.
“Conservation efforts have led to an increase in elephant populations,”
Forest Minister Shri Kashyap said, noting that Chhattisgarh is a state rich in biodiversity and forest wealth. The state government’s conservation efforts have yielded positive results. In 2022, there were approximately 240 elephants in the state, which has increased to approximately 450 in 2026. This is a major achievement in the field of wildlife conservation.
“Reducing human-elephant conflict is a government priority,”
Shri Kashyap explained that elephants’ range has now spread to several areas of Surguja, Bilaspur, Raigarh, Raipur, and Durg divisions. Therefore, in addition to elephant conservation, it is also essential to ensure the safety of people living in affected areas. The State Government is continuously making efforts to reduce human-elephant conflict through public participation, continuous monitoring and scientific management.
“Emphasis on modern technology and scientific approach”
The Forest Minister stated that the state government is implementing a long-term and scientific strategy for elephant conservation. Wildlife management is being strengthened with the help of modern technology, expert guidance, and trained human resources. Workshops like these provide officials and staff with the latest information and practical experience.
“Experts will provide training on health management and conservation.”
Experts from various prestigious institutions, including the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, are training forest officials and veterinarians at the workshop. The training will cover important topics such as scientific investigation of the causes of elephant mortality, preservation of specimens, health examinations, carcass management, and health monitoring.
“Chhattisgarh is becoming a model state in wildlife conservation.”
Forest Minister Mr. Kashyap expressed confidence that the knowledge and experience gained from the workshop will play a vital role in the conservation, protection, and effective management of elephants. He said that Chhattisgarh is emerging as a strong model for the country in the field of wildlife conservation and scientific management.
Expressing gratitude to the experts and participants,
the Forest Minister called for continued work towards biodiversity conservation and promotion of human-wildlife coexistence.