Human-wildlife conflict deepens in Wokha amid elephant intrusions

• WOKHA — Increasing presence of wild elephants in Wokha district has become a persistent threat, with large herds now permanently settled in certain pockets.
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• The most affected regions include elephant corridors under 40 Assembly Constituency Bhandari and 39 Assembly Constituency Sanis, with 37 Tyui and 38 Wokha Assembly Constituency also experiencing disturbances due to the diminishing forest land—forcing elephants to move into higher-altitude areas, including residential zones.
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• The latest elephant incursion occurred late at night on June 11 in Chanka village, where a herd of at least a dozen elephants ravaged betel nut and rubber plantations, leading to severe agricultural losses.

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• While the government and the Wildlife and Forest department continue to frame policies for wildlife conservation, farmers and cultivators bear the brunt of this crisis.
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• Striking a balance between conservation efforts and protecting local livelihoods has become an urgent challenge. An elderly resident of Chanka village suggested that the government explore controlled population management measures, asserting that targeted intervention could help regulate elephant numbers and mitigate the damage.
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• The department concerned has been actively tracking elephant movements, maintaining population records, and conducting awareness campaigns. However, there is a growing need for stronger government collaboration to implement effective relief measures for affected farmers, who continue to suffer staggering losses.
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• Despite ongoing concerns, government assistance for property damage and loss of life remains inadequate, prompting frustration among local farmers. For those living in constant conflict with wild elephants, survival has become an escalating crisis.