Gajah Suchana: Enhancing Welfare and Management of Captive Elephants in India through Genetic Databases
India, home to a significant population of captive elephants, has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to improve their welfare and management. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), has developed the ‘Gajah Suchana’ application. This digital tool is designed to collect and maintain a comprehensive genetic database of captive elephants across the country.
Key Features of Gajah Suchana:
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- Data Collection: The app facilitates the systematic collection of biological samples from captive elephants for DNA profiling. This process involves recording detailed information such as the elephant’s name, gender, age, microchip ID, and physical characteristics like height and weight. As of now, the database encompasses information on over 300 captive elephants.
- Centralized Repository: By creating a centralized repository of genetic and morphological data, Gajah Suchana aids in tracking individual elephants, verifying ownership, and monitoring health records. This centralized system is crucial for validating the identity of elephants during transfers within and between states, thereby preventing illegal trafficking and ensuring legal compliance.
Importance of the Genetic Database:
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- Prevention of Illegal Trafficking: The genetic database serves as a robust tool to combat illegal trade and transfer of elephants. By providing a means to verify the identity and origin of each elephant, it deters unauthorized movements and sales.
- Enhanced Health Management: Access to detailed genetic information allows for better understanding of each elephant’s lineage and health predispositions. This knowledge is vital for making informed decisions regarding medical treatments, breeding programs, and overall care strategies.
- Policy Formulation and Implementation: The data gathered through Gajah Suchana supports policymakers in creating targeted conservation strategies and welfare regulations. It provides empirical evidence needed to address challenges faced by captive elephants and to implement effective management practices.
The modus operandi and Process of data collection from captive elephants across India for the genetic database to be uploaded on the Gajah Suchana application involves multiple steps, ensuring accuracy and ethical handling of elephants. Here’s an outline of the process:
- Planning and Coordination
Identifying Target Elephants: State Forest Departments, elephant owners (private, temple, circus, zoos), and conservation organizations identify captive elephants for genetic sampling.Permission and Approvals: Necessary permissions from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), State Wildlife Departments, and Animal Welfare Boards.
- Field Data Collection
Field Teams: A team comprising veterinarians, wildlife biologists, forest officials, and trained mahouts visits designated locations.
Sample Collection:
Blood Sample: Collected using sterile syringes from the ear veins.
Tissue Sample: Small ear tissue collected using a biopsy punch.
Hair Sample: Pulled from the tail or body for DNA extraction.
Fecal Sample: Non-invasive method for genetic analysis in certain cases.
Microchipping: If not already microchipped, elephants are implanted with a unique microchip for future identification.
- Data Documentation
Demographic & Physical Information:
Elephant’s name, age, sex, ownership details, health status, body measurements, and unique markings.
Photographic & Video Records:
High-resolution images of the elephant’s body, ears (for ID), and tail.
Behavioral & Management Data:
Information on training, temperament, diet, and work routines.
- Sample Preservation & Transport
Storage:
Blood samples stored in anticoagulant tubes and refrigerated.
Tissue samples preserved in ethanol or liquid nitrogen.
Hair samples kept dry in sealed containers.
Transport to Labs: Dispatched to authorized genetic laboratories such as Wildlife Institute of India (WII) or National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) for DNA extraction and profiling.
- DNA Analysis & Database Creation
Genetic Profiling: DNA markers are analyzed to establish unique genetic signatures.
Database Integration: Results uploaded onto the Gajah Suchana application, linking genetic data with elephant profiles for tracking and research.
- Data Utilization
Health & Lineage Tracking: Helps in preventing inbreeding, identifying family history, and improving management.
Policy & Conservation Planning: Supports captive elephant welfare programs, legal ownership verification, and rescue operations.
Monitoring & Research: Assists scientists and conservationists in studying elephant genetics and population dynamics.
In summary, the Gajah Suchana application represents a significant advancement in the conservation and welfare of captive elephants in India. By leveraging genetic data, it offers a scientific foundation for ensuring the well-being of these majestic creatures and safeguarding them against exploitation.
