NEWS – The Karnataka Forest Department developed “KP Tracker,” an indigenous radio collar for monitoring problem elephants.

HIGHLIGHTS

• • KP Tracker offers significant cost savings compared to imported collars (Rs 1.8 lakh vs. Rs 6.5 lakh).
  • It also reduces weight (7.5 kg vs. 16.5 kg), improving comfort for elephants.
• Enhanced Efficiency and Reduced Waiting Time:
  • Local production enables faster delivery (15-20 days) compared to the long wait times (up to 10 months) for imported collars.
  • Easy repair and replacement of local components improve efficiency and reduce resource wastage.
• Improved Data and Conservation Efforts:
  • KP Tracker facilitates real-time data collection, enabling timely alerts to gram panchayats and villages.
  • This proactive approach helps prevent conflicts and enhances conservation efforts.
• Technological Advancements:
  • KP Tracker utilizes GSM technology, an improvement over older radio frequency systems.
  • The department aims to deploy satellite-based collars in the next two years.
• Addressing Other Wildlife Conflicts:
  • The department is expanding the use of trackers to monitor tigers and leopards, particularly focusing on increasing leopard populations.
• Prioritizing Animal Welfare:
  • Thorough testing procedures are implemented to ensure the comfort and well-being of animals wearing the trackers.