PPCP model is ideal for resolving human-elephant conflict: Odisha Forest Minister

Bhubaneswar: A Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) model would be ideal for resolving the human-elephant conflict, opined Odisha Forest Minister Pradip Kumar Amat at the 11th Foundation Day function of Save Elephant Foundation Trust here today.

The State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is trying its best to ensure peaceful co-existence of both human being and elephant, he said.

Human-elephant conflict is increasing day by day and has become a menace in some parts of the State. It is to remember that elephants are an integral part of ecosystem. After Dinosaurs, it is at present the largest land animal. If it disappears, no other species can fill up the ecological niche, said Amat.

Never to forget, elephant has a huge influence on eco-system, particularly in Forest. It is considered as an indicator of good forest, which is quite essential for the existence of human life on earth, stated both Sushil Kumar Popli, PCCF(WL) and Debidutta Biswal, PCCF and HoFF.

Ramesh Kumar Pandey, IGF and Director, Project Elephant elaborated about the human-elephant situation prevailing now. At the same time, Dr. Debabrata Swain, Hon’ble Member of Lokayukta, Jitasatru Mohanty, Trustee, SEFT, Saroj Kumar Patnaik, B.K. Leena emphasized on the very requirement of elephant for a healthy ecosystem.

A photo exhibition was organised and front line forest staff and Hati-Sathis were felicitated during the function.

Dr. Rajanikanta Jena, Chairperson, SEFT offered the welcome address whereas Dr. Prakash Chandra Jena, Managing Trustee, SEFT had the vote of thanks. Among others, Pradeep Kumar Rout, Private Secretary of Forest Minister was also present at the function.