In brief
In a coordinated effort involving government ministries and the armed forces, Sri Lanka has begun the Hasthi Sena operation to protect elephants across most of the island. The program focuses on 17 high‑risk individuals, plans to cover 80% of elephant habitats, and seeks to dismantle illegal firearms, explosive bait, electric fences and snares that endanger the species. The initiative aims to curb human‑elephant conflicts and strengthen wildlife conservation measures.
On 2 November 2026, Sri Lanka announced the launch of the Hasthi Sena operation, a nation‑wide effort to protect elephants and curb human‑elephant conflict. The initiative, which began in the North‑Western Wildlife Region, is a joint effort of the Ministry of Environment, the armed forces and the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
Hasthi Sena — a term meaning “Elephant Guard” in the local language — will focus initially on 17 elephants identified as being at risk. Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi said the program was expected to cover about 80 percent of areas inhabited by elephants, while the remaining 20 percent would be addressed under a separate program.
Human‑elephant conflict is defined as situations where elephants damage crops or property, and where human activity threatens elephant safety. These conflicts can result in injury or death for both species and often lead to the removal or killing of elephants. Reducing such incidents is essential for both wildlife conservation and rural livelihoods.
The operation will conduct systematic raids to confiscate illegal firearms, a major tool used by poachers and those who harm elephants. The authorities will also target “hakka patas,” explosive bait designed to lure and kill elephants, and will dismantle unauthorized electric fences that trap or injure the animals.
In addition to weapon removal, the Hasthi Sena program will eliminate snares—wired traps that can cause serious injury or death. By removing these hazards, the operation aims to create safer pathways for elephants and reduce the likelihood of crop raiding incidents.
Collaboration with the armed forces brings logistical support and security expertise to the project, allowing for efficient patrols across thick forest and agricultural zones. The Department of Wildlife Conservation will provide scientific assessment and monitoring, ensuring that the program’s interventions are guided by up‑to‑date data on elephant movements and population health.
Environmental Minister Patabendi emphasized that the operation is part of a broader strategy to balance wildlife protection with socioeconomic development. He noted that the initiative would also create employment opportunities in wildlife patrols and community education, helping local people understand the benefits of preserving elephants.
Officials expect the initial phase of the operation to reduce the number of human‑elephant conflict incidents by up to 25 percent within the first year, according to the ministry’s preliminary estimates. Monitoring will rely on satellite imagery and field surveys to track changes in elephant distribution and conflict hotspots.
The program’s name, Hasthi Sena, reflects a cultural reverence for elephants in Sri Lanka, where these animals have long been considered symbols of wisdom and prosperity. By invoking this symbolism, the government hopes to rally public support for conservation measures.
International conservation groups have noted that Sri Lanka's approach could serve as a model for other elephant‑habitat countries facing similar conflicts between wildlife and rural communities. The joint use of technology, enforcement, and community engagement is seen as a comprehensive strategy to address the complex factors driving human‑elephant disputes.
In the coming months, authorities plan to expand the operation to cover the remaining 20 percent of elephant territories, integrating lessons learned from the initial phase. The ministry has pledged to maintain transparent reporting and to involve local NGOs in the program’s implementation to ensure that conservation goals are met.
A successful outcome of Hasthi Sena would mark a significant step forward for Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservation agenda, potentially preserving thousands of elephants while simultaneously protecting the livelihoods of local farmers and communities.
