Spike in tusk seizures hints at rampant poaching in forests across Odisha
Odisha has witnessed a disturbing surge in elephant poaching, with 117 tusks seized between 2020-21 and February 2026. Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts are hotspots for these seizures. Experts highlight the urgent need for a dedicated elephant protection force to combat professional poachers and address the alarming decline in elephant populations, particularly in the Similipal landscape.