Human-elephant conflicts killed 1,147 humans and 246 elephants since 2016 in Assam
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims + Mains·
Human-wildlife conflict and habitat fragmentation: a key GS3 Environment and Ecology case study.
Why in news
The Assam Forest Department and WWF-India released a report detailing human-elephant conflict data and habitat tracking in Assam since 2016.
Background
The study tracked four female-led herds and one male elephant across Udalguri, Sonitpur, and Biswanath districts using 38,000 GPS locations. Since 2016, these conflicts have resulted in 1,147 human fatalities and 246 elephant deaths.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceUdalguri, Sonitpur, and Biswanath are districts in Assam where elephant habitat studies were conducted.
- FactThe study utilized 38,000 GPS locations to identify habitats like Sonai-Rupai, Behali, and Bornadi sanctuaries.
- FactHuman-elephant conflicts in Assam caused 1,147 human deaths and 246 elephant deaths since 2016.
Prelims practice question
With reference to human-elephant conflicts in Assam, consider the following statements:
- The study utilized 38,000 GPS locations to identify elephant habitats.
- Human-elephant conflicts have resulted in over 2,000 human fatalities since 2016.
- The study tracked elephant habitats across Udalguri, Sonitpur, and Biswanath districts.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The report states there were 1,147 human fatalities since 2016.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ecological and socio-economic implications of human-elephant conflicts in Northeast India and suggest measures for mitigation.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Habitat fragmentation: Encroachment on elephant corridors in Udalguri and Sonitpur leading to increased proximity to human settlements
- Compensation bottlenecks: Delays in victim relief and lack of community-led early warning systems in Assam
Keywords: Human-Wildlife Conflict · Habitat Fragmentation · Biodiversity Conservation · Elephant Corridors · Mitigation Strategies
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.