Tragic Elephant Deaths in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
Investigation Launched by Environment Ministry
The Union Environment Ministry has initiated an investigation into the deaths of ten elephants in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is leading an independent inquiry, while the state government has formed a five-member committee to investigate the incident.
Details of the Incident
The elephants were found dead in the Salkhania beats of Pataur and Khiatuli range on October 29. Six more elephants were discovered sick or unconscious nearby, and despite treatment, they succumbed to death by October 31. Among the ten deceased elephants, one was male and nine were female, with six being juveniles or subadults.
Possible Cause and Ongoing Investigation
Preliminary reports suggest poisoning as a possible cause, as the elephants had raided a Kodo millet crop. The final cause will be determined after thorough investigations, including postmortem and toxicological reports. The Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Chief Wildlife Warden is overseeing the inquiry, and preventive measures are being implemented to avoid future incidents.
Background on Elephant Deaths in India
In the past five years, India has lost 528 elephants due to unnatural causes such as poaching, poisoning, electrocution, and train accidents.
Doubts Revealed
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve -: Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is a protected area in Madhya Pradesh, India, known for its large population of tigers. It is a place where wild animals like tigers and elephants live in their natural habitat.
Union Environment Ministry -: The Union Environment Ministry is a part of the Indian government responsible for protecting the environment and wildlife. They make rules and take actions to keep nature safe.
Wildlife Crime Control Bureau -: The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau is an organization in India that works to stop illegal activities involving wild animals. They help catch people who harm or trade animals unlawfully.
Kodo millet -: Kodo millet is a type of grain grown in India, similar to rice or wheat. It is a crop that farmers grow for food, and sometimes wild animals like elephants eat it when they are hungry.
