KVIC Rolls Out Project RE-HAB in Assam to Prevent Elephant – Human Conflicts Using Tiny Bees

What is the News?

Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has launched Project RE-HAB (Reducing Elephant-Human Attacks using Bees) in Assam.

What is Project RE-HAB?

Project RE-HAB is a sub-mission of KVIC’s National Honey Mission. 

Under this Project, “Bee-fences” are created by setting up bee boxes in the passageways of elephants to block their entrance to human territories. 

The boxes are connected with a string so that when elephants attempt to pass through, a tug or pull causes the bees to swarm the elephant herds and dissuade them from progressing further.

Where was this project earlier launched?

Project RE-HAB was earlier launched in Kodagu district of Karnataka in March 2021. In just 6 months, this project has reduced elephant attacks by over 70%.

What is the significance of this Project?

Firstly, this project is a cost-effective way of reducing human-wild conflicts without causing any harm to the animals. 

Secondly, it is scientifically recorded that elephants are annoyed by the honey bees. Elephants also fear that the bee swarms can bite their sensitive inner side of the trunk and eyes. Hence, this project will force elephants to return and prevent Elephant – Human Conflicts.

Source: This post is based on the article “KVIC Rolls Out Project RE-HAB in Assam to Prevent Elephant – Human Conflicts Using Tiny Bees” published in PIB On 5th Dec 2021.