Latest news with #WorldElephantDay
Zawya
a day ago
- Politics
- Zawya
Nigeria: Stakeholders highlight impact of climate change on farming activities, communities in Oyo
As the world marks World Elephant Day under the theme 'Bringing the world together to help elephants', wildlife conservation organization, Wild Africa, has asked Nigerian authorities to intensify efforts to protect its dwindling elephant population by mitigating rising human-elephant conflicts which often leads to crop raiding, injuries, and fatalities on both sides. Nigeria's new National Elephant Action Plan (NEAP) identifies human–elephant conflict, particularly crop raiding, as the most significant threat to the remaining elephants in the country. In July, headlines and videos across Nigerian media told the tragic story of a farmer who was killed by an elephant in Ogun State. As reports of human–elephant conflict appear more frequently in the media, conservationists warn these encounters are likely to rise. Habitat destruction is driving elephants into closer contact, and sometimes conflict, with people who may retaliate over damaged crops or property. 'The recent event in Ogun state is a reminder that protecting elephants also means protecting people,' said Dr. Mark Ofua, West Africa Representative for Wild Africa. 'When elephants have space, corridors, and secure habitats, they are less likely to come into conflict with communities. Coexistence is possible, but it requires planning, investment, and law enforcement.' Nigeria's elephant population has dropped dramatically from over 1,200 three decades ago to just 300–400 individuals today, divided into small, isolated herds. The largest single herd — about 100 elephants — lives in Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi State. At the same time, other populations survive in Cross River National Park, Okomu National Park, and other forest reserves in the south. The key threats to their survival are deeply interconnected. Poaching for ivory remains a serious problem, as does habitat loss from logging, agriculture, and infrastructure development. This growing problem is not just a safety issue; it undermines ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria's remaining elephants and damages trust among local communities who start perceiving elephants as a threat, rather than unique mammals worth protecting. Addressing it requires smarter land-use planning and other innovations to protect key habitats, better community engagement, and training on safe coexistence measures, as well as rapid response teams that can act quickly when elephants enter conflict-prone areas. For instance, in Zimbabwe, the WhatsAppchatbot Wildlife Info provides instant advice on dealing with elephant-related problems, tips for peaceful coexistence, and guidance on wild animal behaviour. By simply texting the dedicated WhatsApp number, users can access methods to reduce conflict, crop damage, and livestock predation. This innovative tool makes vital information accessible to communities. Reducing the levels of human-elephant conflict is one of the key objectives of the NEAP, which was developed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation in partnership with the Federal Government. The plan aims to secure and restore habitats, connect fragmented ranges through wildlife corridors, and implement early warning systems, while supporting farmers with non-lethal deterrents, such as natural chilli repellent, noise-makers, digging trenches, and creating beehive fences. It also aims to promote community benefits from elephant conservation, such as tourism opportunities, while boosting anti-poaching patrols and improving enforcement against ivory trafficking. 'Because we believe people and wildlife can only survive and thrive together, we need to work to train and equip local communities to implement appropriate, locally relevant mitigation measures while conducting awareness campaigns to disseminate information on these measures,' DrOfua added. Meanwhile, Nigeria has made progress with the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, 2024, which has passed its third reading in the House of Representatives and is now with the Senate for consideration. If passed and signed into law by the President, this legislation would enhance Nigeria's capacity to combat wildlife crime and mitigate the degradation of critical habitats for iconic species, such as elephants. Wild Africa is calling on the Nigerian populace to cohabitate peacefully with elephants and avoid confrontation with these majestic animals. The non-profit is running an awareness campaign across Nigeria, utilizing TV, radio, print media, billboards, and social media to inform the public about safe practices near elephant habitats and the ecological importance of elephants. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
New Indian Express
a day ago
- New Indian Express
Tamil Nadu launches HAWK to combat wildlife crimes
COIMBATORE: The state forest department, in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and NTT Data, has launched the Hostile Activity Watch Kernel (HAWK), a real-time crime management platform aimed at curbing forest and wildlife crimes. The launch coincided with World Elephant Day celebrations on Tuesday. The platform, powered by advanced technology, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, will serve as a centralised state-level intelligence and monitoring system. It is designed to streamline documentation, enhance decision-making, and enable proactive responses to wildlife crimes. 'Currently, information is siloed within individual forest ranges or divisions. With HAWK, crime reports will be instantly available to all HAWK users across the state,' said chief wildlife warden Rakesh Kumar Dogra, adding that it would fundamentally change how wildlife crime data is managed. Jose Louies, WTI CEO, said the system would empower forest officials to prevent hostile activities, and address threats to habitats. HAWK comprises two modules: Shikra, for recording wildlife mortality incidents across the state, and Peregrine, the core module, which tracks all crime-related data from initial reports to final court judgments.
Hans India
a day ago
- Health
- Hans India
MyVoice: Views of our readers 14th Aug 2025
Releasing timely pension best gift for freedom fighters This is in response to the article headlined 'Bandi Sanjay orders swift action on freedom fighters' pensions and enemy properties' (THI, August 13). I strongly commend this decision, as it assures justice for our freedom fighters besides ensuring responsible management of national assets. Considering that over 26,000 pension cases are pending, the August 31 deadline to clear all of them is not just administrative efficiency but also a moral duty and a thanksgiving gesture to those who gave us our freedom. The parallel action on enemy properties is equally commendable. Swift pensions and transparent property management together reflect a governance that respects history while securing the nation's future, which is a step every citizen should support. Nooreen Fatima, St Francis College for Women, Hyderabad Organ donation must be encouraged The statistics that emerged on the International Organ Donation Day (August 13) make for dismal news in the Indian context. It is startling that there are only 0.65 donors for every 10-lakh people, whereas it is an overwhelming 30 in Spain and Croatia. Even more tragically alarming is that 15 persons die for want of organs every day. This is a sorry state-of-affairs when we consider the significant strides India is making in the field of medicine and organ transplantation. According to one estimation, approximately two lakh people are waiting for kidney transplantation, and 50k each for liver and heart transplantation. Transplantation among women is very poor vis-à-vis organ donations. A brain-dead person can give life to eight persons if his/her organs are transplanted to those battling for life. There is a need to spread awareness about this humanitarian act, as a measure to curtail organ harvesting rackets. Pratapa Reddy Yaramala, Tiruvuru (AP) Spread awareness about organ donations This has reference to the article 'Raising awareness about importance of organ donation'. Every August 13 is a reminder to one and all about the need for organ donation. It is a gift that offers hope to patients and their family. It is an astounding fact that over three lakh patients in India are looking for Good Samaritan organ donors. I feel medical authorities must educate masses on how to donate organs and thereby save lives, which would be a praiseworthy noble act. G Murali Mohan Rao, Secunderabad-11 Lending a humane touch to World Elephant Day I sincerely appreciate the great initiative undertaken by the Nehru Zoological Park. (Nehru zoo celebrates World Elephant Day with spl. feasts for jumbo inmates-THI). It was heart-touching to read about the special care and attention given to four elephants-Vanaja, Asha, Sita and Vijay. Specially prepared cakes, a 'jumbo feast' and a refreshing three-km walk around the premises epitomise the staff's dedication and genuine concern for animals. By providing a safe environment for their inmates, the zoo serves as a powerful educational platform. These actions help to foster a sense of responsibility and empathy for animals, which in the long-term will be very helpful. Suraiyya Asad, St Francis College for Women, Hyderabad
The Hindu
2 days ago
- The Hindu
World Elephant Day: Special postal cover released at Karnataka's Dubare
On the occasion of World Elephant Day 2025, the Indian Postal Department, in collaboration with the Kodagu Forest Division, released a special postal cover at the Dubare Elephant Camp. In a unique gesture, the special postal cover was carried by an elephant named Harsha. The event was attended by officials from the Forest Department, including the Chief Conservator of Forest, Kodagu Circle; Deputy Conservator of Forest and Assistant Conservator of Forest, Madikeri division; Range Forest Officer, Kushalnagar Division; and senior officers of the Postal Department from Kodagu, including the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent of Posts, along with other officials from both departments. Located at Kushalnagar in the Madikeri division, the Dubare Elephant Camp is home to around 34 Asiatic elephants. Its primary purpose is to rescue, capture, translocate, and tame conflict elephants. The camp also provides shelter and care for injured wild elephants and orphaned elephant calves. In addition, it serves as a conservation education hub for wildlife enthusiasts and urban visitors interested in learning about elephant characteristics and behaviour. It is also an eco-tourism destination. Importantly, elephants for the world-famous Mysuru Dasara procession are also sent from this camp, according to the Kodagu Postal Superintendent.
Time of India
2 days ago
- General
- Time of India
AI saves elephants: 6,592 safe elephant crossings on Tamil Nadu railway tracks; no fatalities in nine months
Tamil Nadu Forest Department has successfully implemented an AI-powered early warning system to protect elephants crossing railway tracks in Madukkarai, Coimbatore. The system, operational since November 2023, has recorded 6,592 safe elephant crossings through a network of 12 towers and 24 cameras monitored by 25 forest staff members, resulting in zero elephant deaths on the tracks. The Forest Department shared video evidence of the system's effectiveness, showing a family of elephants safely traversing the railway tracks in Madukkarai. The footage captured the elephants walking calmly across the tracks, demonstrating the successful integration of technology and wildlife protection measures. "TN proves what's possible when technology meets commitment. In Madukkarai, the AI-powered early warning system has ensured zero elephant deaths on rail tracks since Nov 2023. 12 towers | 24 cameras | 6,592 safe crossings | 25 forest staff on watch. Every elephant matters — TN shows the world how," the Tamil Nadu Forest Department stated in their social media post. The achievement gained additional recognition when Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Supriya Sahu shared the video on World Elephant Day, which is observed annually on August 12. The initiative represents a collaborative effort between forest rangers, track watchers, guards, loco pilots, and officers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 11 Foods That Help In Healing Knee Pain Naturally | Zen Life Mag Undo The monitoring system operates around the clock using thermal cameras to ensure safe passage for the elephants. "What better tribute to elephants on #WorldElephantDay than guaranteeing their right to a safe life," Sahu wrote in her social media post. "Let's do more of these interventions to ensure the long-term survival of these beautiful elephant families," Sahu added in her statement. The successful track record of 6,592 safe crossings since the system's implementation in November 2023 provides concrete evidence of its effectiveness in preventing elephant casualties on railway tracks.
