Bengaluru: After successfully deploying six trained kumki elephants to Andhra Pradesh earlier this year, Karnataka’s “elephant diplomacy” is now extending to another neighbour. Goa has formally sought Karnataka’s support to rein in ‘Omkara’—a wild elephant that has been raiding crops and troubling villagers. Goa Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane on Saturday met Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre in Bengaluru to request the deployment of kumkis (trained and captive jumbos) and experts to tackle the problem.Rane reportedly told Khandre that Goa, despite having over 60% forest cover, never faced elephant conflict until recently. “This problematic elephant, which locals have named ‘Omkara,’ has become a serious concern. We need Karnataka’s expertise and kumki elephants to rescue and rehabilitate it,” he said. Omkara, a 10-year-old wild elephant separated from its herd, has been roaming across Pernem taluk in North Goa, raiding coconut, banana plantations, and paddy fields around Tambose village. Forest officials said the elephant earlier created trouble in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district before crossing into Goa through Mopa village a few weeks ago.Speaking to the media, Khandre confirmed receiving the formal request. “Karnataka has significant experience in handling such cases and has enough trained kumki jumbos in our elephant camps. However, as Goa shares a border with Maharashtra, the matter will also require discussions with the Maharashtra Chief Minister,” he explained.On whether Karnataka would send kumkis to Goa, Khandre clarified, “Right now, we are focused on Dasara preparations. After Vijayadashami celebrations, we will consider an operation in Goa. But unlike in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka will only extend its expertise this time—we will not be sending kumki elephants.”Goa Minister Rane thanked Karnataka for its positive response and assured that his govt would seek Maharashtra’s cooperation to ensure a smooth rescue operation. Meanwhile, Khandre used the meeting to urge Goa’s support for the long-pending Kalasa-Banduri project, which aims to provide drinking water to Kittur Karnataka districts.
