Assam is stepping up its efforts to mitigate human-elephant conflict, with the state government deciding to increase the number of Gajamitra teams from the existing 81 to at least 150.
The expansion aims to strengthen early response, improve coordination in protecting both people and wildlife.
Environment and Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announced the decision following a review meeting with senior Forest Department officials and Divisional Forest Officers from across Assam. The additional teams are expected to be constituted within the next two to three days.
Gajamitra teams play an important role in areas affected by human-elephant conflict, helping improve communication and response when elephants move close to human settlements and agricultural fields. The expansion comes amid concerns over human casualties and crop damage, and reflects the need for stronger coordination at the local level.
The review meeting also focused on protecting Assam’s forests through improved monitoring and enforcement. The department is examining satellite-based systems to identify fresh forest encroachment and illegal tree felling, generate alerts and enable timely action. The minister reiterated that anti-encroachment operations would continue, citing recent drives in Nagaon, Hojai and Dhubri districts.
“For us, protecting wildlife must go hand in hand with safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of communities living alongside forests. Stronger field teams, better monitoring technology and cooperation among forest officials and residents can help build a more effective approach to conservation,” he said.
