India’s Elephant Count Falls to 22,446 in First DNA-Based Census

The latest All-India Synchronous Elephant Estimation (SAIEE) 2025 reveals India’s wild elephant population at 22,446. This is about 17% lower than the 2017 estimate of 27,312. However, experts note the two figures cannot be directly compared. The 2025 count used advanced DNA-based methods instead of visual sightings. This marks India’s first-ever genetic census of elephants. The report marks threats like habitat loss, infrastructure projects, and human-elephant conflict as key reasons for population decline.

New DNA-Based Census Methodology

The 2025 census involved collecting 21,056 dung samples across elephant habitats. These samples covered 670,000 km of forest trails. Scientists used DNA fingerprinting to identify 4,065 unique elephants. A mark-recapture statistical model then estimated the total population. This method avoids duplication seen in visual counts. It is similar to the technique used for tiger population estimates. The process took longer, delaying the report since 2021, but enhanced accuracy.

Population Distribution Across Regions

India hosts over 60% of the world’s Asian elephants. The Western Ghats is the largest elephant stronghold with 11,934 individuals. The Northeastern Hills and Brahmaputra floodplains support 6,559 elephants. The Shivalik Hills and Gangetic plains have 2,062 elephants. Central India and the Eastern Ghats together hold 1,891 elephants. This distribution reflects habitat availability and conservation efforts.

Statewise Elephant Numbers

Karnataka leads with 6,013 elephants, followed by Assam with 4,159 and Tamil Nadu with 3,136. Kerala has 2,785 elephants, and Uttarakhand 1,792. Odisha’s population stands at 912. Smaller populations exist in Arunachal Pradesh (617), Meghalaya (677), Nagaland (252), and Tripura (153). Madhya Pradesh (97) and Maharashtra (63) have the smallest and most fragmented herds. These numbers indicate regional conservation challenges.

Threats to Elephant Populations

Habitat loss due to deforestation and infrastructure projects is a major threat. Shrinking forests and blocked corridors force elephants into human settlements. This increases human-elephant conflicts, causing electrocution, train accidents, and retaliatory killings. These factors contribute to the declining elephant numbers. Conservation efforts must address habitat connectivity and conflict mitigation.

Significance of Genetic Census

The DNA-based census provides a more reliable population estimate. It helps in better planning of conservation strategies. Genetic data can also assist in monitoring genetic diversity. This is crucial for long-term species survival. The approach sets a precedent for wildlife population assessment in India.