A panel discussion was held in Bengaluru over the weekend, featuring wildlife conservationist Vinod Krishnan and psychologist Dr. Chaitanya Sridhar, who is also the founder of Aane, an environmental conservation organization. The conversation explored the complexities of human-elephant conflict and discussed ways forward. Dr. Chaitanya emphasized the importance of urban dwellers understanding their local ecosystems and how their actions and perceptions impact their understanding of elephants. He highlighted the need for reconnecting with nature like our ancestors did, stressing the importance of challenging existing narratives and developing a new appreciation for these incredible animals.

Dr. Chaitanya pointed out that the media often portrays elephants negatively when they enter urban areas, but it's essential to recognize that these animals are pushed into cities due to habitat loss and disrupted migration corridors. Rather than labeling them as rogue elephants, efforts should be focused on understanding and addressing the root causes of this conflict. He emphasized that World Elephant Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on how we can contribute to elephant conservation and support policymakers and agencies in raising awareness about elephants among the urban population.

Dr. Chaitanya stressed the need to treat elephants with respect and understanding, highlighting that they are magnificent creatures and symbols of our natural heritage. Protecting elephants is a shared responsibility, requiring us to be more aware of their needs and challenges. This includes understanding their ecosystem, reducing consumption, and curbing excessive greed. Ultimately, a holistic approach is needed to foster tolerance and respect for wildlife.Vinod, a wildlife conservationist, emphasized the importance of changing our perspective. Space is essential not just for humans, but also for various wildlife species, including elephants. These majestic creatures need extensive habitats to survive. It is our responsibility to coexist with them, honoring their need for space. Elephants depend on large areas to move around freely and prosper. To ensure their survival, it is crucial to comprehend their requirements and appreciate their natural behaviors.