- Tech-driven elephant safety alerts in Katghora
- Community ‘Hathi Mitra Dal’ aids wildlife protection
- Forest-based economy boosts local livelihoods
- Katghora’s model inspires national replication
In Katghora Division of Chhattisgarh, a unique conservation effort unfolds, blending technology and community care. According to media reports, this forested region with dense greenery and many elephants faces ongoing human-wildlife conflicts. As per several media reports, Indian Forest Service officer Kumar Nishant leads a new model promoting coexistence. Reported by media sources, this approach enhances safety for both wildlife and villagers while supporting local livelihoods.
Tech-Powered Vigilance & Elephant Safety
According to media reports, Katghora is home to around 50 wild elephants, whose seasonal movements pose threats to villages. As per several media reports, Mr. Kumar Nishant pioneered the SAJAG Alert System, a mobile platform sending real-time IVRS calls and SMS alerts to warn residents of nearby elephants. Reported by media sources, over 2 lakh alerts have been sent since 2023, enabling timely action.
As per media reports, technological tools include cultural outreach like KALA JATTHA using folk media, thermal drones and CCTV for night monitoring, an AI-Based Elephant Tracking App, GPS-embedded smart sticks for staff, and a centralized Elephant Monitoring Station. According to media reports, these efforts have resulted in zero elephant casualties in 24 months and a sharp reduction in crop damage, with fewer human injuries and deaths.
Community as Custodians – Education, Inclusion & Ownership
According to media reports, the pivotal initiative ‘Hathi Mitra Dal’ trains local youth as first responders to elephant movements. As per several media reports, these ‘Elephant Friends’ act as forest department eyes and ears. Reported by media sources, cultural awareness drives and school sensitization programs foster long-term conservation values.
As per media reports, community members respond to conflict alerts before official teams arrive. A 24×7 Elephant Control Centre, rescue camps, toll-free numbers, and collaboration with the Electricity Department help prevent elephant electrocution by facilitating timely power line shutdowns. According to media reports, WhatsApp groups and GPS reporting have markedly reduced elephant deaths.
Forest-Based Economy & Holistic Development
According to media reports, the revival of Minor Forest Produce processing and alternate livelihood programs forms a core of sustainable development. As per several media reports, farming of elephant-resistant crops like Kodo millet, mushroom farming, tailoring, poultry, and beekeeping have been promoted.
Reported by media sources, a Laghu Vanopaj Processing Unit supplies Rs. 4 crore in herbal products to the Ayush Department, certified organic by FSSAI, with growing orders. According to media reports, eco-tourism initiatives and women-led eco-product enterprises provide additional income streams, enhancing local economies.
Key Features of the Katghora Model
According to media reports, this model includes a 24×7 Elephant Control Centre, ODK app training for villagers, collaboration with police and power departments to reduce electrocution risks, rescue camps, patrol points, and awareness signage. As per several media reports, the approach combines technology, community engagement, and government coordination for effective conservation.
A Replicable Model for the Nation
According to media reports, Kumar Nishant’s leadership in Katghora has made the division a national model, balancing elephant welfare and human safety with economic growth. As per several media reports, his success reflects the importance of trust and collaboration between communities and conservationists. Reported by media sources, this model inspires nationwide efforts toward science-based and community-focused wildlife preservation.
As per media reports, the Katghora Division’s conservation approach showcases how technology, culture, and community can unite for ecological harmony. The initiatives have lowered conflicts, boosted safety, and enhanced livelihoods, setting replicable standards for other regions. According to media reports, this blend of innovation and inclusion marks a forward step in India’s forest management.
Looking ahead, according to media reports, expect wider adoption of Katghora’s model that integrates technology and local participation. This could lead to better human-wildlife coexistence, safer landscapes, and thriving forest communities nationwide.
Disclaimer
This news story has been developed by Ingenious India based on information available in the open domain for public consumption. Ingenious India does not claim ownership of original reporting and has compiled this article using publicly accessible media sources. For any concerns regarding the information, please contact the editor at ingindia22@gmail.com
