The Assam Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department has announced several measures to address the growing human–monkey and human–elephant conflicts across the state. The decisions were taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah.

Key Measures Announced

1. Scientific Monkey Census

• Assam will conduct a scientific monkey census for the first time in four districts: Kamrup (Metro), Goalpara, Golaghat and Darrang.
• The census will help assess monkey populations and guide future conflict-management strategies.
• Depending on the findings, the government may consider measures such as sterilisation and regulated relocation, subject to wildlife protection requirements.

2. Expansion of Gaja Mitra Groups

• The number of Gaja Mitra groups will increase from 81 to 150 to strengthen grassroots-level elephant conflict management.
• Each group currently comprises 8–10 volunteers who spread awareness about elephant behaviour and coordinate with the Forest Department.
• Three forest personnel will also be included in each group to improve coordination and emergency response.
• Forest rangers have been directed to maintain special vigilance during the harvesting season, when elephants frequently enter agricultural fields.

3. Faster Compensation

• District Commissioners have been empowered to provide compensation within three days for eligible crop losses and deaths resulting from human–wildlife conflict.

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

Assam’s approach combines scientific population assessment, community participation, forest-level monitoring and faster compensation to improve human–wildlife coexistence.

One-line wrap: Effective human–wildlife conflict management requires scientific planning, habitat conservation and active participation of local communities.