A special report highlights that Odisha records the highest number of human deaths caused by elephants in India, making human–elephant conflict one of the state’s most pressing wildlife conservation and public safety challenges. Habitat fragmentation, shrinking elephant corridors, mining, infrastructure development, and increasing human encroachment into forest areas have intensified encounters between people and elephants.

The report points to a newly established Centre of Excellence for Human–Elephant Conflict Management in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, as a potential game changer. The centre will focus on scientific research, use of technology, early warning systems, habitat restoration, elephant movement monitoring, and training of frontline forest personnel to reduce conflict and improve coexistence between people and elephants.

The article suggests that Odisha could greatly benefit by adopting the centre’s expertise and proven conflict-mitigation strategies. Better planning, community participation, improved corridor management, and technology-driven interventions could help reduce both human and elephant casualties while strengthening long-term conservation efforts.

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