Tragic Elephant Deaths in Odisha Highlights Urgent Conservation Efforts

Over 340 elephants have died in Odisha from April 2022 to March 2026 due to poaching and accidents. The government is taking steps to mitigate this crisis, including anti-poaching squads and AI monitoring. The Dhenkanal district reported the highest fatalities, followed by other regions across the state.

In a shocking revelation, Odisha's Forest Minister Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia disclosed in the assembly that 344 elephants have perished across the state over four years. Major causes include poaching and accidents.

Dhenkanal district emerged as the most affected, reporting 53 deaths, followed by several other districts. The statistics highlight the escalating crisis faced by Odisha's pachyderms.

To address this, the state government has launched several measures including setting up anti-poaching camps, utilizing AI for animal movement monitoring, and forming joint task forces. These efforts aim to bolster conservation and protect these majestic creatures.

(With inputs from agencies.)