Elephants are forest ecosystem engineers and are integrally tied to the biodiversity fabric. They shape their environment in ways that benefit numerous other species.

Tata Power is conscious of its responsibility to preserve the rich biodiversity in its area of operation and beyond and chooses to amplify the relentless efforts of the government and local bodies by contributing time, expertise, and operational rigor. The state of Odisha is one of the last preserves of the majestic Asian elephants. Tata Power has taken over the electricity distribution network across the state, which gives Tata Power both an opportunity and an immense responsibility to work on the ground to preserve and protect the rich natural heritage.

With 14 elephant corridors and 1,976 elephants, Odisha is a vital elephant corridor, housing about 5% of the world's Asiatic elephant population. The accidental elephant deaths due to human-wildlife conflicts in Odisha have been a growing concern since the takeover of operations. Over the last decade, 765 elephants have died in the state, underscoring the urgent need for effective conservation efforts.

A cruicial effort to protect the Asiatic elephants

With the focus on leading systematic conservation efforts, Tata Power, along with the Government of Odisha, has launched ‘Gaja Sanrakshana,’ an initiative designed to implement progressive measures to ensure elephant conservation in Odisha.

Derived from Sanskrit, "Gaja Sanrakshana" translates to "Elephant Protection," embodying our commitment to safeguarding these majestic creatures. Elephant conservation in the state of Odisha is focused on key hotspots around elephant reserves and elephant corridors to reduce casualties through on-ground intervention, both technical and educational.

Tata Power has partnered with SNEHA (Support for Network and Extension Help Agency), a subject-matter expert agency, for this initiative. SNEHA has led credible elephant conservation efforts in the past. The organization is led by a seasoned development professional with over 35 years of experience in program management and community development. By fostering partnerships with SNEHA as well as the forest and wildlife departments, Gaja Sanrakshana aims to preserve vital habitats and promote harmonious coexistence between humans and elephants.

Through this initiative, Tata Power aims to align with SDGs 1, 2, 13, and 15 to reduce human-wildlife conflict and improve the livelihoods of poverty-stricken families through efficient resource management. The project’s goal is to reduce accidental deaths and preserve and increase the indigenous elephant population by creating a conducive environment in their natural corridors, implementing protective measures for their habitats, and promoting harmonious coexistence.

Project objectives

A herd of Asiatic elephants

Target outcomes