Bhubaneswar, Aug 21: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday inaugurated an International Workshop on Best Practices in Human-Elephant Coexistence in Bhubaneswar, stressing global collaboration for peaceful living between people and elephants.
On the occasion, Majhi announced the establishment of the world’s first “Center for Species Survival: Asian Elephant” at Godibari near Chandaka, in collaboration with IUCN SSC, Wildlife Trust of India, and Columbus Zoo. The centre will serve as a hub for research, policy, and conservation across South and Southeast Asia.
Majhi highlighted Odisha’s efforts, such as mapping elephant corridors, restoring forests, empowering local groups, and deploying technology like GPS collars and AI cameras. He reaffirmed Odisha’s vision of balancing development with wildlife conservation.
The two-day workshop brings together experts, conservationists, and policymakers from India and abroad to discuss strategies for reducing human-elephant conflicts and promoting sustainable coexistence.
