Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday urged the people of Odisha to come together in a unified effort to protect elephants, marking the occasion of World Elephant Day 2025. He emphasised the crucial role that elephants play not only as a symbol of the state’s rich cultural heritage but also as vital contributors to the ecological balance of Odisha’s forests.
“Elephants are an integral and inseparable part of Odisha’s cultural heritage and natural environment. From the revered Lord Jagannath to the golden inscriptions of Konark, the majestic presence of elephants is deeply woven into Odisha’s history and traditions,” CM Majhi stated.
He further emphasised the ecological importance of elephants, referring to them as ‘environmental engineers’ crucial for maintaining biodiversity and forest health.
“The prosperity of our forests depends largely on these magnificent creatures. However, elephants face a decline worldwide due to multiple threats, making their protection our collective responsibility,” the Chief Minister added.
To ensure the long-term survival of elephants, the Odisha government has adopted a scientific and proactive approach. The administration is actively working to secure and enrich elephant habitats while implementing measures to minimise human-elephant conflicts.
“Several exemplary steps have been taken to promote the safety and peaceful coexistence of wildlife. Compassionate assistance to communities affected by such conflicts is also being intensified,” CM Majhi noted.
Concluding his message, the Chief Minister urged all citizens to unite in the mission to protect this national heritage species.
“On this World Elephant Day, let us pledge to ensure a safe and secure environment for elephants in Odisha and across India,” he said.
