Trained Elephants to Save Andhra from Wild Herd Chaos
Kumki elephants deployed to curb human-elephant conflict.
In a groundbreaking move to tackle escalating human-elephant conflicts, the Andhra Pradesh government has deployed specially trained “Kumki” elephants to protect villages and farmlands in affected regions like Chittoor and Parvathipuram Manyam. This initiative, supported by the Karnataka government, marks a significant step toward non-violent wildlife management.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced on X that the Kumki elephants, brought from Karnataka in May, are now operational in the Palamaneru forest division after intensive training for Andhra Pradesh mahouts. These domesticated Asian elephants are trained to guide wild herds away from human settlements, reducing the risk of fatal encounters and crop destruction that have plagued local farmers for years.
The deployment follows high-level collaboration, with Kalyan personally thanking Karnataka’s Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre for facilitating the transfer. The strategy integrates advanced technology, including 24/7 drone surveillance and village-level alert systems, to monitor elephant movements and warn communities in real-time.
Forest officials are optimistic that the Kumki initiative, combined with these measures, will provide lasting relief to residents, safeguarding lives and livelihoods while promoting harmonious coexistence with wildlife.
