In a pioneering move to enhance the living conditions and uphold the traditional knowledge of elephant caretakers, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin recently inaugurated the state’s second dedicated village for mahouts at the Kozhikamuthi Elephant Camp within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
This impressive project, developed at an investment of ₹5.4 crore, features 47 modern staff quarters specifically designed for mahouts and other elephant caretakers. This initiative builds upon the success of India’s first such village, established earlier this year at Theppakadu in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Chief Minister Stalin officially unveiled the new village during a virtual ceremony.
Kozhikamuthi, known as one of the country’s oldest elephant camps, is currently home to 24 elephants, lovingly cared for by tribal mahouts whose expertise has been passed down through generations. The camp has received extensive upgrades, now boasting contemporary amenities, including a dedicated elephant viewing gallery and a visitor-friendly walkway, enhancing both care and visitor experience.
A standout feature of this modern village is its commitment to sustainability. A cutting-edge solar-powered microgrid, complete with battery storage, has been installed by the State Planning Commission at a cost of ₹3.5 crore. This robust system – comprising a 124 kWp solar plant, a 516 kWh battery bank, and a 100 kW inverter – guarantees a continuous, environmentally friendly power supply for both the camp and the mahout households, ensuring reliability even during challenging weather conditions.
Further demonstrating its progressive approach, the State government has also revised service rules to enable direct recruitment of kavadis (assistant mahouts) from indigenous communities. This crucial amendment ensures the preservation of invaluable traditional knowledge while seamlessly integrating it with contemporary elephant management practices, creating a holistic approach to conservation.
The inauguration event was attended by senior officials, including Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary to the Departments of Environment and Forests, and Srinivas R. Reddy, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force).