Bhubaneswar, Odisha : Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated an International Workshop on Human-Elephant Coexistence in Bhubaneswar, highlighting the importance of global collaboration, research, and community engagement to ensure peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants.
On the occasion, the CM announced the creation of the world’s first “Center for Species Survival: Asian Elephant” at Godibari near Chandaka Wildlife Division. This initiative is in partnership with the IUCN Species Survival Commission, Wildlife Trust of India, and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. “This centre will drive research, shape policies, and implement best practices across South and Southeast Asia,” the CM said.
Addressing delegates from India and abroad, CM Majhi emphasized, “In Odisha, elephants are more than animals—they are part of our heritage. As the National Heritage Animal, elephants hold a special place in our hearts.” He expressed concern over habitat loss caused by expanding agriculture and infrastructure, which has intensified human-elephant conflicts.
Odisha’s initiatives include mapping elephant corridors, restoring degraded forests, empowering local groups through Gaja Saathi and Vana Surakshya Samitis, strengthening anti-poaching squads, and using GPS collars, drones, and AI cameras for monitoring. “Our vision is to create a model where elephants roam freely, forests thrive, and communities coexist peacefully,” he added.
The workshop featured addresses by top officials including Shri P. K. Jha, PCCF (Wildlife), Odisha; Ms. Heidi Riddle, IUCN Species Survival Commission; Shri Suresh Pant, PCCF & HoFF, Odisha; and Mr. Adam Felts, Columbus Zoo, who shared international strategies for elephant conservation. Minister of Forests Shri Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia highlighted Odisha’s shift from a protection-only approach to a holistic coexistence model.
During the event, the CM released a Coffee Table Book, bibliography, and brochures, along with a short film showcasing Odisha’s elephant conservation achievements. The two-day workshop will include technical sessions, deliberations, and experience-sharing, positioning Odisha as a global leader in human-elephant coexistence.
