Empowering Guardians: A Crop Protection Workshop with the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department

A training workshop on human-elephant conflict management for the frontline forest staff of Bandhavgarh tiger reserve was conducted on November 22, 2024, in Manpur. Organized by the Wildlife Research and Conservation Society (WRCS) in partnership with The Nature Conservancy Center (TNCC), the event aimed to build capacity among 50 forest department staff and 17 members of "Haathi Mitra Dal." The workshop covered elephant behaviour, management protocols, and community-based strategies to address the challenges of crop damage, human injuries, and retaliatory actions.

The training session witnessed the participation of frontline staff and senior officials, including Dr. Anupam Sahai, Field Director of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve and the Range Officers from Pataur, Manpur, and Panpatha Buffer zones. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between senior officials, frontline staff, community members and NGOs in addressing human-elephant conflict effectively. Participants, including senior forest officials and community representatives, engaged in interactive sessions led by experts- Dr. Prachi Mehta, who provided insights into elephant ecology and coexistence strategies. Dr. Rajashekhar Niyogi detailed the National and State level Recommended Operating Procedures (ROPS) for conflict management, while Mr. Jayant Kulkarni trained attendees in elephant identification techniques crucial for monitoring and mitigation. The WRCS team demonstrated practical tools like trip alarms and chili-based deterrents, among others emphasizing community-driven approaches. Insights from other Indian states were shared by Mr. Nikunj Jambu, fostering discussions on adaptable strategies.

The workshop concluded with a review session where officers and participants shared feedback, highlighting resource needs and the importance of tailored interventions. The event successfully integrated theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and community engagement, ensuring actionable outcomes for reducing human-elephant conflicts in the region.