Genetic Profiling of Kerala's Captive Elephants: A Conservation Effort

Genetic Profiling Initiative: The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is set to begin genetic profiling of approximately 400 captive elephants in Kerala to include their details in a national database.
Method & Equipment: Forensic kits provided by the WII to the Kerala Forest Department will be used for collecting blood and dung samples by assistant conservators (social forestry) across districts.
Training for Forest Officials: An online training program on sample collection and report updating is scheduled for April 5 and 6.
Timing: Sample collection is anticipated to start in the second week of April, coinciding with Kerala's temple festival season, where captive elephants are paraded at temples.
Context of Decline: Kerala, previously known for having the largest population of captive elephants, now records an all-time low of 407 captive elephants with an average of 25 elephant deaths annually.
National Perspective: The captive elephant profiling has been completed in a few states, with an estimated total of 3,000 captive elephants in India.

Purpose of Genetic Profiling: Genetic profiling aids in conservation efforts, helps in understanding genetic diversity and health, assists in tracking the lineage of captive elephants, and could be crucial in curbing illegal trade by providing definitive identification.
Implications for Conservation: This initiative is part of a larger effort to protect and manage India's elephant population, contributing to their health, welfare, and legal protection.
Concerns During Festival Season: The timing of the sample collection highlights the cultural significance of elephants in Kerala’s festivals, which has been a point of ethical debate regarding animal welfare.

Reason it's important : Genetic profiling of captive jumbos of Kerala to begin soon

Published in : The Hindu

Date appeared in newspaper : 01 April 2024

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