In July 2025, In an effort to mitigate human-elephant conflict during the paddy season, the Assam Cabinet launched a community-based initiative targeting eight conflict-prone districts. This initiative focuses on training local response teams to manage elephant movement and ensure crop protection. What is the name of the initiative launched by Assam to manage human-elephant conflict?

The correct answer is Gajah Mitra Scheme. In News Assam launched the ‘Gajah Mitra’ scheme to protect people and elephants in eight conflict-prone districts. Key Points The Gajah Mitra Scheme was approved by the Assam Cabinet chaired by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. It targets eight districts: Goalpara, Udalguri, Nagaon, Baksa, Sonitpur, Golaghat, Jorhat, and Biswanath. Trained community members will manage elephant movement and reduce crop damage risks. A total of 80 local teams will be set up to monitor and respond during the paddy season. The initiative promotes awareness of elephant behaviour among villagers. It integrates local communities into conservation efforts through structured training and response. Additional Information Human-elephant conflict in Assam often intensifies during harvest seasons. Elephant corridors are essential for minimizing accidental encounters with humans. Elephants are Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. ​ Enacted in 1972 to protect wild animals, birds, and plants. Provides legal framework for the establishment of protected areas like national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Applies to the whole of India except Jammu & Kashmir (until 2019). Divides wildlife species into six schedules for varying degrees of protection.