Assam Launches Gajah Mitra Scheme

The Gajah Mitra scheme is a new initiative launched by the Assam government on July 11, 2025, to address the critical issue of human-elephant conflict.

With an alarming rise in both elephant deaths and human fatalities in the state, this government plan for elephants aims to ensure peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.

The Gajah Mitra scheme is a proactive step underlining the government's commitment to elephant conservation, biodiversity, and community safety. It is also an example of a forward-thinking Assam scheme that blends environmental care with public welfare.

Why Was the Gajah Mitra Scheme Introduced?

According to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), from 2000 to 2023:

• Over 1,400 people died due to encounters with elephants.

• 1,209 elephants were killed, 626 of which were due to human activities like electrocution from illegal fencing.

Areas like Nagaon, Sonitpur West, Dhanasiri, and Karbi Anglong East have recorded some of the highest elephant deaths. Goalpara tops the list of villages affected by elephant conflict.

The Gajah Mitra scheme was created to curb this crisis by introducing safe zones for elephants, reducing wildlife conflict in Assam, and promoting sustainable living.

Key Features of the Gajah Mitra Scheme

The Gajah Mitra scheme is built on four pillars:

1. High-Risk Area Focus

The scheme targets 80 high-risk areas in Assam where elephants and people frequently interact. These zones are prioritized for intervention and management under the Gajah Mitra scheme.

2. Elephant-Friendly Farming

To divert elephant herds from entering villages, the government will cultivate bamboo and Napier grass. These are among the favorite foods of elephants and will act as natural deterrents.

• The benefits of bamboo and Napier grass for elephants are significant: they provide nutrition and discourage movement toward farmlands.

3. Deployment of Rapid Response Teams

Trained personnel will be stationed in sensitive areas to help guide elephants safely away from human settlements. These rapid response teams will rely on non-violent methods to prevent elephant intrusions.

• Their role in wildlife conflict in Assam will be critical to reducing confrontations.

4. Restoration of Elephant Corridors

One major aspect of the Gajah Mitra scheme is the development of elephant corridors to restore their natural migration routes. These safe zones for elephants aim to prevent disruptions that lead to conflict.

Why This Matters for SSC Aspirants

For those preparing for SSC and other competitive exams, the Gajah Mitra scheme is a highly relevant topic in:

• Environment & Ecology

• Current Affairs

• Government Schemes

Understanding this scheme gives aspirants an edge in both the objective and descriptive exam sections.

Possible SSC Exam Questions:

• What is the Gajah Mitra scheme, and why was it launched?

• What plants are being cultivated to support the scheme?

• What is the role of rapid response teams in elephant conservation?

National and Environmental Impact

The Gajah Mitra scheme sets an example for wildlife protection not just in Assam but across India. It reflects a balanced approach between human safety and animal rights and shows how government schemes can create a real impact through community-based solutions.

By integrating steps taken by the Assam government for elephant safety with local participation, the Gajah Mitra initiative is expected to be a model of success.

Quick Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The Gajah Mitra scheme stands out as a timely and thoughtful initiative by the Assam government to address the rising crisis of human-elephant conflict. By combining scientific planning, community involvement, and natural deterrents, the scheme not only protects wildlife but also ensures the safety of rural communities.

Its focus on sustainable habitats, non-violent conflict resolution, and rapid response mechanisms sets a model for other states to follow. For SSC aspirants, this scheme is not just a key current affairs topic but also a powerful example of innovative governance and wildlife protection in action.

As India continues to grow, balancing development with ecological conservation is the need of the hour, and the Gajah Mitra initiative is a strong step in that direction.