On Monday, Nov. 2, Sri Lanka inaugurated the nationwide operation Hasthi Sena to guard elephants and reduce human‑elephant conflict, according to the Ministry of Environment. The initiative began in the North‑Western Wildlife Region and involves the armed forces, the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and the ministry itself. The first phase will focus on 17 identified at‑risk elephants, with plans to extend coverage to about 80% of all elephant‑habited zones, leaving the remaining 20% to a separate program.
Security teams will conduct raids and take legal action against improper weapons, including illegal firearms and the explosive bait known as “hakka patas.” Offenders will face prosecution for establishing unauthorized electric fences and snares that pose threats to the wildlife. The operation reflects a broader effort to curb human‑elephant conflict and safeguard protected animals.
All key details—operation name, launch date, participating agencies, target area coverage and enforcement measures—are directly confirmed by Xinhua. No alternative accounts or disputes have emerged to date, and no unconfirmed aspects are reported by other outlets. The operation is therefore treated as fully validated by the official source.
