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AECP
The Asian Elephant Conservation Programme
Our flagship Programme
The Asian Elephant Conservation Programme (AECP) is A Rocha India’s flagship program and longest running ecological study on the Asian elephants of the Bannerghatta-Hosur Landscape. The AECP is aimed at finding a solution that will benefit both local people and elephants. We have pioneered scientific research for elephant conservation through the study of population dynamics and ecology, understanding the conflict surrounding human-elephant interactions and implementing mitigation solutions and developing technology that is suited to the local context.
Research
Over the past twenty years, we have engaged in extensive research projects that deepen our understanding of Asian elephants and their ecology. Our studies focus on critical aspects such as population dynamics, demography, local distribution, movement patterns, and behavioral assessments. By adopting a holistic and collaborative approach, we work alongside various stakeholders, including the Forest Department, local farmers, researchers and conservation organizations. This collaboration enhances our collective knowledge and contributes significantly to the academic understanding of Asian elephants in our region.
Community based conservation efforts
AECP focuses on conserving Asian elephants while recognising their shared habitat with local communities. Education, outreach and sustainable practices minimize negative interactions between people and elephants, while economic incentives offer alternative livelihoods, fostering stewardship and protecting vital elephant habitats.
Captive elephant systems
AECP conducts research on captive elephants, delving into their behaviour, ecology, and welfare standards, aiming to enhance management practices. The studies help us understand these majestic creatures better and contribute to their conservation, while helping develop practical guidelines for the management of both captive and their wild conspecifics.
Innovations in human-elephant conflict mitigation
AECP’s technological and innovative interventions in human-elephant conflict (HEC) management have served as early warning systems for elephant presence, enhancing deterrent mechanisms and reducing retaliatory persecutions.
The program has additionally helped to map conflict patterns & determinants for over two decades. Sensor based technology has been advancing rapidly over the past few decades, and we are committed to providing cost effective, locally relevant and easily accessible tech solutions to our various stakeholder
Fostering partnerships
AECP is a collaborative effort of the conservation community, envisioned by researchers, organizations and visionaries who recognise the power of alliances to create an impact for elephant conservation. Building on the common ground of passion and commitment towards conservation, AECP collaborates with prominent Asian elephant range partners, conservation agencies as well as state forest departments to achieve its mandate.
© 2024 A Rocha India
National Office & Field Study Centre
#13, Kaserguppe Village,
Bilwardahalli (Dakle), Bannerghatta (Post),
Jigani (Hobli), Anekal (Taluk),
Bangalore South-560083
Karnataka – IN