The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department, under the directions of the Central government, has launched DNA profiling of about 20 captive elephants — including six kumkis (trained elephants) — in Chittoor district, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), and the Zoo Parks in Tirupati and Visakhapatnam, with the aim of improving their long-term health care and scientific management.

District Forest Officer (Chittoor) G. Subburaj told The Hindu that as part of a nation-wide initiative, blood samples from six trained elephants, housed in Kuppam and Palamaner camps, have been collected and sent to the Wildlife Institute of India in Dehradun for a detailed genetic analysis. He said that the exercise is part of a wider effort under Project Elephant to bring advanced scientific methods into elephant conservation and management.

“The DNA profiling will help authorities create unique genetic records of each elephant. The analysis can record valuable information on age, immunity levels, inherited traits, and possible health risks, helping veterinarians plan better treatment and long-term care for the elephants,” the forest official said.

Mr. Subburaj observed that the development comes at a time when India is increasingly relying on genetic science for wildlife conservation. The All India Synchronised Elephant Estimation–2023, country’s first DNA-based elephant population survey, used advanced genetic sampling techniques and scientific modelling to estimate elephant numbers more accurately across major landscapes.

Of the six trained elephants housed in Chittoor district to carry out kumki operations in and around the Koundinya wildlife sanctuary, four were brought from Karnataka to help manage human-elephant conflict, while two are trained in Kuppam. “The use of DNA technology will strengthen monitoring systems, improve elephant welfare, and support future conservation planning in the State,” the DFO said.