The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has initiated several measures to address issues surrounding the transfer, transport, sale, and procurement of elephants in India. In response to complaints and representations received, the Ministry has been forwarding them to the Chief Wildlife Wardens (CWLWs) of respective States and Union Territories for appropriate action, in line with the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
In collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India, the Ministry has developed a mobile application called ‘Gajah Suchana’, aimed at collecting biological samples from captive elephants across the country for DNA profiling. The app will create a comprehensive genetic database of all registered captive elephants, including their genetic profiles, morphological details, and ownership information. This centralized repository will help verify the identity of elephants during transfers, ensuring the authenticity of such movements, and curbing illegal transfers. The database will also support forensic investigations and legal proceedings related to the illegal possession and transfer of captive elephants.
To further regulate the movement of captive elephants, the Government of India has introduced the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024, aimed at ensuring the proper handling of elephants during their transfer across states. Additionally, a High-Powered Committee has been constituted to address the transfer of captive elephants between states, as per the Supreme Court’s order dated March 3, 2023.
Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, provided this information in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha today. These measures are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to protect elephants and ensure their welfare while regulating their movement across the country.
