CM Majhi Launches Global Conservation Drive from Odisha
State to host unique Centre for Species Survival: Asian Elephant at Chandaka
Bhubaneswar : Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the International Workshop on Best Practices in Human-Elephant Coexistence in Bhubaneswar, urging experts, policymakers, and conservationists from across the globe to work together for peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants.
Marking a historic step in wildlife conservation, the Chief Minister announced that Odisha will establish the world’s first “Center for Species Survival: Asian Elephant” at Godibari, near Chandaka Wildlife Division. The centre will be set up in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission, the Wildlife Trust of India, and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
“The initiative will not only benefit Odisha but also serve South and Southeast Asia by driving research, shaping policy, and promoting best practices for elephant conservation. This will be a global benchmark in protecting the Asian Elephant,” Majhi said in his inaugural address.
Majhi underlined that elephants are an integral part of Odisha’s identity, spirituality, and culture. “In Odisha, elephants are more than animals—they are part of our history and our soul. The elephant, as the National Heritage Animal, holds a special place in our hearts,” he said.
However, he expressed concern over the growing man-elephant conflict due to shrinking habitats caused by expanding agriculture and infrastructure. “The increasing incidents of conflict highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions,” he added.
The Chief Minister highlighted a series of initiatives already underway in the state, including mapping elephant corridors, restoring degraded forests, and strengthening local protection groups such as Gaja Saathi and Vana Surakshya Samitis.
Technology is also being deployed, with the use of GPS collars, drones, and AI-enabled cameras to track elephant movement. Anti-poaching squads have been reinforced to safeguard herds, while awareness campaigns are being conducted to sensitize communities living in elephant corridors.
“Our vision is to create a model where elephants roam freely, forests remain healthy, and communities live in harmony with wildlife. This model will not only benefit Odisha but inspire the world,” Majhi said.
The workshop, attended by conservationists, researchers, and policymakers from India and abroad, focused on evolving strategies to mitigate human-elephant conflict. Majhi emphasized that Odisha is ready to lead a global movement for coexistence. “We are moving beyond conflict management to building pathways for coexistence. The future of elephants is linked to the well-being of the communities who share their space,” he said.
Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia said Odisha has transitioned from a protection-centric approach to a holistic philosophy of coexistence. He stressed on habitat restoration, community involvement, and scientific monitoring as key strategies.
The inaugural session was marked by several expert addresses. P.K. Jha, PCCF (Wildlife), Odisha, delivered the welcome address, while Heidi Riddle, Vice Chairperson of IUCN Species Survival, highlighted the importance of collaborative global action.
Suresh Pant, PCCF & HoFF, Odisha, detailed state-level initiatives in elephant protection, while Adam Felts, Vice President of Animal Care, Columbus Zoo, shared international perspectives. Ramesh Kumar Pandey, Additional Director General of Forests and Director of Project Elephant, spoke on the central government’s efforts to mitigate conflict.
Satyabrata Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, FE\&CC Department, outlined Odisha’s policy measures.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister released a Coffee Table Book, a bibliography, and brochures documenting Odisha’s elephant conservation journey. A short film showcasing the state’s initiatives was also screened.
Dr. Manoj V. Nair, CCF (Wildlife), delivered the vote of thanks.
The two-day workshop will feature technical sessions, deliberations, and experience-sharing among global experts. The outcomes are expected to lay down sustainable strategies for coexistence, positioning Odisha as a leader in Asian elephant conservation.
“With this workshop and the establishment of the Asian Elephant Survival Centre, Odisha has taken a bold step towards securing a future where humans and elephants can thrive together,” Majhi concluded.
