World Animal Protection Announces Elephant Retirement Plan on World Elephant Day in Jaipur
In the heart of Jaipur, India, the plight of captive elephants continues to be a pressing concern. More than a decade ago, measures to improve their wellbeing and curb the illegal trade in live elephants were suggested, but progress has been slow [1].
Currently, animal welfare organisations, including World Animal Protection, are advocating strongly for the retirement of the approximately 80 elephants still used for tourist rides and entertainment at Amer Fort and Haathi Gaon. These groups highlight the ongoing cruelty and suffering these animals endure [1].
Despite over two decades of activist campaigns and previous indicators supporting better captive elephant management and welfare interventions, these elephants in Jaipur continue to face harsh conditions and abuse. The problematic practice of introducing new elephants, often of wild origin, into captivity exacerbates the situation [1].
World Animal Protection promotes the relocation of such elephants to well-maintained sanctuaries that adhere to high standards of animal husbandry and care [1]. However, concrete progress on actual retirement and transition of these captive elephants to sanctuaries seems limited, indicating ongoing challenges and the need for stronger implementation.
The call to "begin the process of retiring" these elephants suggests that efforts are still in the early stages rather than completed [1]. If successful, the phasing out of elephant rides in Jaipur could enhance the city's international status as a UNESCO World Heritage City.
The captive elephants in Jaipur are used for human entertainment, a practice that perpetuates the stereotype of India as a land of exotic wild animals and adds to animal cruelty. Research documents, including one by the Animal Welfare Board of India and another by Project Elephant, suggest that phasing out the elephant ride spectacle at Amer Fort in Jaipur would be in the best interests of the elephants [1].
Addressing the plight of captive elephants in Jaipur requires consideration of the holistic needs of the animals, mahouts, and elephant owners. World Animal Protection India's Country Director, Gajender Kumar Sharma, can be contacted at [email protected] for more information.
On World Elephant Day, let us remember that elephants belong in the wild, where they roam free with their kin. It's time to take action and ensure the wellbeing of these magnificent creatures in captivity.
[1] Source: World Animal Protection and associated research documents. As of August 2025, the focus remains on advocacy and initial steps towards retirement rather than the completion of the transition.
- In the realm of personal growth and self-development, learning more about the captive elephants in Jaipur and taking action to promote their welfare can be a meaningful endeavor for self-improvement.
- As you seek news and updates on current issues, you might come across the ongoing struggle to retire captive elephants used for entertainment in Jaipur, India.
- In addition to advocating for captive elephants, some organizations also focus on improving the lives of pets and domestic animals. World Animal Protection's mission extends beyond elephants, incorporating the welfare of various home-and-garden animals as well.
- For individuals seeking career development in the field of animal welfare, the efforts to retire captive elephants in Jaipur and improve their living conditions presents a compelling opportunity to make a difference.
- In the realm of lifestyle and entertainment, one could choose to support establishments that ensure their elephant attractions uphold high ethical standards, contributing to positive environmental impact, animal welfare, and the overall betterment of elephants in captivity.
