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Source: The post is based on the article “Elephant Corridors of India Report: plagued with inconsistencies, could escalate conflict with humans” published in “Down To Earth” on 8th November 2023
Why in the News?
Several discrepancies have been identified in the “Elephant Corridors of India, 2023” report published recently by the central government.
What is the Elephant Corridor?
An elephant corridor is a land strip facilitating the movement of elephants between two or more viable habitat patches.
What is the Elephant Corridor Report 2023?
Released by: Ministry of Environment and Climate Change
Compiled by: Elephant cell of Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
Key Findings of the report:
| Specifications | Details |
| Elephant Corridors | 150 elephant corridors have been identified in 15 elephant-ranging states. |
| Highest Elephant Corridors | West Bengal has the highest number (26) of identified elephant corridors in India. |
| Elephant Corridor region wise | 1.East-Central region reported the highest number of elephant corridors at 52 2.Northeast Region at 48 3.Southern Region at 32 4.Northern region has the lowest number of elephant corridors at 18. |
What are the major issues found in the Elephant Corridor Report 2023?
Corridor Definition Concerns: Critics note a diluted interpretation of corridors, where any area elephants move through is labeled as a corridor, expanding the total count.
– Due to this, habitats and landscapes are classified as corridors, contributing to the surge in their numbers.
Risks to Elephants: Critics argue that the expansion of elephant ranges has led to increased incidents of elephant deaths due to electrocution and falling into wells.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
