Tragic Tuskers: Elephants' Plight in Odisha

Over the past 11 years, Odisha has lost 888 elephants predominantly to electrocution, poaching, and accidents. The 2024-25 fiscal (till February) saw the highest toll, highlighting the need for enhanced conservation efforts. Affected communities receive compensation for elephant-inflicted damages and fatalities.

Odisha has witnessed the tragic death of 888 elephants over 11 years, with the current fiscal marking the most significant loss, Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia informed the state assembly. Up until February of the current financial year, 97 elephant deaths were recorded, raising serious concerns about conservation efforts.

Electrocution, poaching, and accidents emerged as leading causes, with electrocution claiming 158 lives since 2014-15. The government reported 33 poaching incidents, and deaths from encounters with trains, road accidents, and poisoning were also noted. While diseases topped the list at 306 deaths, 93 deaths were attributed to natural causes, and 100 cases remain unresolved.

Furthermore, the minister's reply highlighted the human cost with 1,209 people killed in elephant attacks during this period. The state compensates families of the deceased with Rs 6 lakh and provides financial aid for crop losses due to elephants. The latest census indicates 2,103 elephants inhabit Odisha's forests.