Guwahati: In a bid to mitigate human-elephant conflict (HEC) and promote harmonious coexistence, Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation organisation, organised two outreach programmes aimed at sensitising local communities. The events took place at Bholatar Lokhipriya LP School in Udalguri and No.2 Dangargaon in Tamulpur, Assam, on the 18th and 19th of September. Around 28 villagers participated in the Udalguri session, while 36 attended the event in Tamulpur.
As part of these outreach efforts, Aaranyak highlighted effective HEC management techniques by showcasing their signature campaign “Gajah Kotha.” The screening included visual demonstrations of innovative solutions such as solar fencing and lemon bio-fencing, which help protect crops and property. The video documentation underscored how these methods have been successfully implemented in mitigating HEC situations.
The events, supported by the SBI Foundation, aimed to deepen the community’s understanding of elephant behaviour while offering practical solutions like seasonal solar fencing and bio-fencing. These initiatives were introduced to help the villagers safeguard their livelihoods while peacefully coexisting with elephants.
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Following the presentations, the Aaranyak team engaged the villagers in discussions focused on the HEC challenges they face. The conversations revolved around the need for long-term strategies and practical measures to effectively manage and reduce these conflicts.
The programmes were led by Aaranyak representatives Mondeep Basumatari, Abhijit Saikia, Dibakar Nayak, Bikash Tossa, Pradip Barman, and intern Abhilasha Boruah, who facilitated the discussions and guided the community towards sustainable solutions for HEC management.
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