Gaj Rakshak App Enhances Elephant Monitoring in Bandhavgarh

Launch of the App

Gaj Rakshak App Enhances Elephant Monitoring in Bandhavgarh: Authorities in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve have adopted the Gaj Rakshak App to address rising incidents of human-elephant conflict. The app was inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on World Tiger Day in Bhopal. Developed jointly by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, the Wildlife Conservation Trust, and Kalpvag Company, the app is designed to enhance elephant monitoring and conservation efforts.

Features of the App

The Gaj Rakshak App provides real-time location data of elephants, their movement, and behavior. Alerts are sent through SMS, push notifications, voice calls, and sirens when elephants approach human settlements. The app also supports offline mode, ensuring communication even in remote areas. Field staff can upload images, update elephant locations, and report whether elephants are moving solo or in herds. This information is shared with residents within a 10 km radius, creating a safety buffer.

Static GK fact: The use of mobile-based wildlife tracking apps in India started gaining prominence with tiger reserves like Nagarhole and Kaziranga introducing similar systems for big cat monitoring.

Rising Elephant Population

The elephant population in Bandhavgarh has significantly increased since 2018, when a herd of 40 elephants made the reserve their permanent home. Today, the number has grown to around 65 elephants. Their presence is now spread across Umaria, Shahdol, and Anuppur districts. A separate group of 19 elephants has been living near the Bansagar backwaters, sustained by bamboo forests, hills, and abundant water.

Static GK Tip: India is home to more than 60% of the global Asian elephant population, making their conservation vital for biodiversity.

Habitat Advantages in Bandhavgarh

Wildlife experts highlight that elephants prefer Bandhavgarh due to its year-round water sources, rich bamboo supply, and dense forest cover. The hilly terrain offers natural protection and ample food. These factors have turned the reserve into a safe and permanent habitat for elephants, reducing chances of migration to other states.

Wider Deployment Across Madhya Pradesh

The app’s use is being extended beyond Bandhavgarh. Training sessions have been conducted for forest officials in Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve, as well as in Shahdol, Anuppur, Sidhi, Singrauli, Satna, Umaria, and Dindori districts. This expansion aims to build a statewide elephant monitoring network, especially as elephant numbers in Madhya Pradesh are showing a consistent rise.

Static GK fact: Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve was declared a national park in 1968 and became a Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 1993.

Conservation Impact

The Gaj Rakshak App is expected to serve as a vital tool in reducing human-elephant conflicts, safeguarding communities, and ensuring elephant welfare. By combining technology with community participation, Madhya Pradesh is setting a model for other states facing similar challenges in wildlife conservation.

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Gaj Rakshak App Enhances Elephant Monitoring in Bandhavgarh: