A special reserve unit to monitor the movement of wild elephants in conflict areas in Kerala

Forest Minister Shibu Baby John has issued urgent orders for the formation of a 500-member special reserve force to address the mounting hardships faced by people on the fringes of the forest due to attacks by wild elephants.

The specialized force, which will be deployed in hotspots where wild elephant raids are most common, will be divided into 100 groups of five members each.

The force will comprise members of tribal communities with knowledge of wildlife-endangered areas, retired forest department experts, technical knowledge workers and experienced local residents.

The primary objective of the force will be to continuously monitor the movement of elephants and their migration routes, ensure public safety by issuing early warnings through direct communication and media platforms when wild elephants are spotted in or near human settlements, and regularly review the effectiveness of wildlife prevention systems, including solar fencing.

The force will also provide assistance and support to rapid response teams involved in driving wild elephants back into forest areas safely. In addition, the troops will participate in other activities aimed at mitigating conflicts.

According to the directive, the force will operate around the clock and conduct activities, including patrolling, in conflict-affected areas.

Published – 10 Jun 2026 19:51 IST