Modern technology to be used to save elephants in Asia

Mumbai: Modern technologies such as genetic databases, infrared cameras, drones, and AI would be deployed for more effectively monitoring and managing elephant populations in Asia.

Various aspects on use of modern technology was discussed at the Fourth Asian Elephant Range States Meeting, held in Siem Reap, Cambodia, earlier this month.

Government representatives from 13 Asian elephant range countries, along with members of the IUCN Species Survival Commission Asian Elephant Specialist Group (AsESG) and the Center for Species Survival (CSS) Asian Elephant.

The meeting was hosted by the Government of Cambodia and organised by the IUCN SSC Asian Elephant Specialist Group (AsESG), with support from the CSS Asian Elephant, a collaborative partnership between IUCN Species Survival Commission, Wildlife Trust of India, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department of Odisha.

Over three days, the meeting included 14 technical sessions, bringing together participants to discuss key conservation challenges, exchange solutions, and explore collaborative strategies. The first day began with country presentations, where government representatives provided updates on the conservation status of elephants in their respective countries. This was followed by sessions that delved into critical issues such as elephant corridor management, habitat connectivity, minimising the impact of linear infrastructure on elephant habitats, human-elephant conflict mitigation, and management of captive elephants.

Discussions also focused on the development of national elephant conservation action plans, enhancing transboundary collaboration, securing sustainable funding for conservation efforts, and harnessing technology to advance elephant conservation.

Delegates examined best practices for conducting elephant population surveys, emphasising the use of modern technologies such as genetic databases, infrared cameras, drones, and AI to more effectively monitor and manage elephant populations. A dedicated session on the Asian Elephant Database addressed the challenges faced by the range countries, particularly in data collection, sharing, and standardisation. Participants engaged in discussions on strengthening data-driven conservation, improving regional coordination, and supporting informed decision-making.

“The meeting was an important commitment to conserving the endangered Asian elephant,” said Vivek Menon, IUCN Councillor and Chair of the IUCN SSC AsESG. “While we recognise the many challenges in its conservation, this meeting reaffirms our shared vision and hope for collective action. The Asian elephant is not just a part of our natural heritage but deeply embedded in our cultures, and together, we strive to secure its future,” he added.

“Collaborative initiatives, such as all Asian elephant range countries coming together for conservation, are crucial in ensuring a sustainable future for Asian elephants,” said Dr. Srey Sunleang, Director General, General Directorate of Natural Protected Areas, Ministry of Environment, Cambodia.