Current Affairs - State - Discussion

The ‘Gajah Mitra’ scheme was launched by the Assam government to address the escalating issue of human-elephant conflict in the state. With over 1,400 human and 1,209 elephant deaths between 2000 and 2023, Assam recognized the urgent need for action. The scheme targets 80 high-risk areas and includes strategies like growing elephant-friendly crops such as bamboo and Napier grass to reduce intrusion into villages. It also deploys rapid response teams to guide elephants away safely. By promoting non-violent methods and involving communities, the scheme aims to ensure peaceful coexistence and reduce tragic encounters between people and wildlife.