Assam Launches ‘Gaja Mitra’ Scheme to Curb Human-Elephant Conflict

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has launched the ‘Gaja Mitra’ scheme to reduce rising human-elephant conflict in 80 high-risk locations across eight districts. Each site will have an eight-member rapid response team. Measures include planting bamboo and Napier grass, solar fencing, and habitat restoration. From 2000–2023, over 1,400 human and 1,209 elephant deaths were reported. The scheme aims to ensure peaceful coexistence through community action and ecological balance.