Assam’s Elephant Population Surges in 2024

January 3, 2025

Assam has recently reported increase in its elephant population. The latest estimate reveals a total of 5,828 elephants, marking a rise of 109 since the previous count in 2017. This data, released by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is based on a thorough survey conducted from February 20 to 27, 2024. The synchronised estimation involved 5,743 personnel across 1,536 survey blocks in 43 forest divisions. The report marks the importance of elephant reserves in sustaining the population and mitigating human-elephant conflicts.

Overview of Elephant Reserves

Assam is home to five main elephant reserves that play important role in conservation. These reserves include Chirang-Ripu, Sonitpur, Dehing-Patkai, Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong, and Dhansiri-Lungding. Together, they account for approximately 82% of the elephant population.

Population Distribution

The 2024 estimate indicates that 68% of elephants reside in protected areas, while 30.4% are found in managed forests. Only 1.6% of the population is recorded in revenue areas, denoting the challenges posed by habitat fragmentation and human encroachment.

Methodology of Estimation

The estimation process utilised the Direct Visual Total Count (DVTC) method. This involved dividing the estimation area into manageable blocks and deploying teams equipped with GPS devices, binoculars, and data collection sheets. A preliminary survey was conducted to gather essential data before the actual counting phase.

Key Findings from the Report

The report revealed an adult female-to-calf ratio of 0.49, indicating successful reproduction. Additionally, the tusker-to-makhna ratio improved from 1:2.63 in 2017 to 1:1.97 in 2024, suggesting better survival rates for tuskers amidst ongoing poaching threats.

Challenges Facing Elephants

Despite the stable population, elephants face numerous challenges, including habitat degradation and human-elephant conflicts. The Dhansiri-Lungding Elephant Reserve was identified as an area of concern due to its low density of 6 elephants per 100 sq. km, signalling severe habitat fragmentation.

Chirang-Ripu Reserve spans 2,600 sq. km.
Dhansiri-Lungding Reserve has the lowest density of elephants.
The adult female-to-calf ratio is 0.49.
Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong is the largest reserve in Assam.
Makhna males are tuskless and less targeted by poachers.

Conservation Recommendations

The report recommends several strategies to enhance elephant conservation. These include strengthening anti-poaching measures, restoring habitats in low-density areas, and identifying critical elephant corridors. Advanced monitoring techniques, such as radio-telemetry, are also suggested for better understanding elephant movements.

Importance of Protected Areas

Protected areas are very important for the long-term sustainability of Assam’s elephant population. They serve as core breeding grounds, ensuring the survival and genetic diversity of the species. Active management and protection of these areas are essential for maintaining healthy elephant populations and mitigating human-elephant conflicts.

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