Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 12: The Middle Andaman Forest Division observed World Elephant Day 2026 on 12th August 2026 at Parnashala Camp under Rangat Range, with the objective of creating awareness about elephant conservation, welfare, habitat protection, and the vital role played by elephants in maintaining the balance of forest ecosystems.
The programme was organized in the presence of Chief Guest Mr. Vikas Yadav, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Middle Andaman, and Guest of Honour Dr. Sam Varghese, Senior Veterinary Officer, Forest Department officials, Mahouts, Elephant keepers, Executive Staff, and Industrial Staff actively participated in the celebration.
The programme commenced with an Elephant Food Plantation at Parnashala Camp, highlighting the importance of providing suitable food resources and maintaining a healthy habitat for elephants.
As part of the celebration, a Quiz Competition was organized among the mahouts to enhance their knowledge and understanding of elephant management, welfare, behaviour, and conservation. An exhibition and elephant decoration competition was also held, in which the elephants were beautifully decorated with garlands, flowers, tilak, and other traditional adornments.
Mr. Alkab Hassan, ACF, Middle Andaman Division, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the significance of the occasion. Mr. Vikas Yadav, IFS, DFO, addressed the participants and shared his views on the importance of World Elephant Day and the need to strengthen conservation and welfare measures for elephants.
Dr. Sam Varghese, Senior Veterinary Officer, delivered a presentation on various aspects of elephant welfare, including proper feeding and nutrition, hygiene, regular health monitoring, prevention of skin infections and diseases, safe handling practices, and maintaining the overall physical well-being of elephants. He also emphasized the importance of fostering a healthy, safe, and harmonious relationship between elephants, their handlers, and the forest environment.
Further, Mr. Sukumar Das, ACF, Middle Andaman Division, spoke about the ecological importance of elephants and their contribution to maintaining healthy forest ecosystems. A documentary highlighting the important role of elephants and the close bond and relationship between mahouts and elephants was also screened during the programme.
