Mysore/Mysuru: In a tribute to Karnataka’s elephant handlers, Forest Minister Eshwar B. Khandre lauded the State’s mahouts and kavadis for their unmatched role in mitigating human-wildlife conflict across India.

Speaking at the Mysore Palace premises yesterday, after distributing welfare kits to Dasara elephant caretakers, the Minister highlighted that the skills of Karnataka’s mahouts are not taught in any University but are inherited legacies, passed down through generations.

Khandre noted that Karnataka’s handlers have earned national recognition for their expertise in taming rogue elephants and participating in high-risk operations involving the capture of man-eating tigers and aggressive wild elephants.

Their reputation is such that States like Andhra Pradesh and Goa frequently seek Karnataka’s trained kumki elephants for their own wildlife management operations.

While commending this traditional knowledge, the Minister stressed the need to complement inherited skills with modern training programmes led by experts to enhance their preparedness in handling unpredictable animal behaviour.

Concern over selfie culture

Turning to safety during the Dasara festivities, the Minister raised concern over visitors taking selfies and social media reels dangerously close to the elephants, with some even touching their tusks and trunks. Though the elephants are well-trained, their reactions in certain situations can be unpredictable.

As a precaution, the District Administration has prohibited public access near the elephants and warned of penalties for violations. In a recent case, a woman bypassed security to film a reel near the elephants, prompting disciplinary action against staff on duty. Officials confirmed notices had been issued for the lapse.

Tribute to Arjuna

Khandre also paid homage to Arjuna, the celebrated elephant who carried the golden howdah eight times during Dasara. Arjuna tragically died during a rogue elephant capture operation near Yeslur in Hassan district.

To honour his legacy, memorials have been set up at Nagarahole’s Balle and Yeslur. While the Balle memorial has already been inaugurated, Yeslur memorial is slated to be opened soon.

Yesterday’s event was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Manoj Ranjan, Conservator of Forests Ravishankar, DCFs Dr. I.B. Prabhugowda, K. Paramesh and Shankaregowda and Mysuru Zoo Executive Director Anusha.