The conservation of the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) holds global significance, as the species is distributed across 13 range countries in South and Southeast Asia and is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The Asian elephant is also included in Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), recognizing the need for coordinated international action for its conservation across transboundary landscapes. India supports more than 60% of the world’s remaining wild Asian elephant population, making it the global stronghold for the species. The species is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, providing the highest level of legal protection. In India, elephant populations are distributed across four major landscapes and 22 range states.

India conducted synchronized elephant population estimations every five years, a major methodological advancement was introduced in All-India Synchronous Elephant Estimation (SAIEE)2021–25. SAIEE integrated dung-based genetic mark–recapture techniques with camera trap-based distance sampling to enhance accuracy and efficiency. The method estimated 22,446 wild elephants and established a more robust and accurate baseline for long-term monitoring and evidence-based management. In addition, India manages 2,725 captive elephants as per the 2026 census.

Conservation initiatives are primarily implemented under Project Elephant, a centrally sponsored scheme. India currently has 33 notified Elephant Reserves covering approximately 80,777 sq. km. These reserves extend beyond protected areas into revenue and community lands, requiring integrated landscape-level management that balances conservation priorities. The criteria for Management Effectiveness Evaluations (MEE) for ERs have been developed; pilot tested in 4 ERs and now is being conducted across India. Complementing this, a structured framework for Elephant Conservation Plans (ECPs) has been developed to guide long-term, region-specific conservation strategies and is currently being pilot tested in the Nilgiri Elephant Reserve.

Securing elephant corridors is a key priority, and a total of 150 corridors have been identified, and ground validated to facilitate seasonal movement, maintain genetic connectivity, and reduce conflict. Recognizing that elephant habitats extend beyond national boundaries, India actively engages in transboundary conservation with neighbouring range countries. India has been implementing the Monitoring of Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) Programme of CITES in 10 Elephant Reserves since 01.04.2004, with Project Elephant serving as the national nodal agency, strengthening surveillance, data collection, and reporting on illegal killing and elephant mortality.

For captive welfare, the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024 regulate movement under the Wildlife Protection Act. A nationwide genetic database is being developed to strengthen traceability and scientific management. Technical manuals and the Gaj Soochna App further support improved monitoring and welfare standards.

Collectively, India’s efforts reflect a comprehensive, science-based, and internationally aligned approach to Asian elephant conservation, integrating regional and global cooperation under CMS to ensure the long-term survival of this iconic migratory species.