Description

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Context:

In 2025, A recent study on Asian Elephants has revealed important information about their vocalizations system. Trumpets, Roars, Rumbles, Chirps are the Types of Vocalizations. These Vocalizations (sounds) are used for communication, to seek attention, and to express emotions.

New Understanding from the Study

Earlier, it was believed that trumpeting was mostly a reaction to human disturbances.
But, New findings show that trumpeting is also used during social interactions & play, not just distress situations.

About Asian Elephants

Scientific Name	*Elephas maximus*
Subspecies	1. Indian Elephant 2. Sumatran Elephant 3. Sri Lankan Elephant
Population	Less than 50,000 individuals left, with divided populations across 13 countries.
Habitat	Grasslands, scrublands, evergreen & deciduous forests.
Size and Appearance	Asian Elephants are smaller than their African Elephants. They also have smaller ears compared to African elephants.
Ecological Importance	Important for forest health & wildlife.
	They Create forest clearings for regeneration & digs for water which benefits other wildlife as well.
Protection Status	IUCN Red List: Endangered.
	Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest protection).
	CITES: Appendix I (International trade ban).
Conservation Initiatives	Project Elephant is focusing on protecting elephants & their habitats. The program was launched in 1992 by the Government of India.
Reserves	There are total 33 Elephant Reserves in 14 states. Highest populations in Karnataka, Assam & Kerala.

Source: Thehindu

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements: UPSC 2020 PYQ

The leader of an elephant group is a female.
The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

●Statement 1 is correct: The leader of an elephant group is the oldest and largest female, known as the matriarch.

●Statement 2 is correct: The maximum gestation period for Indian elephants is 22 months, making it one of the longest among mammals.

●Statement 3 is incorrect: Female elephants can continue to calve well into their 40s or even 50s.

●Statement 4 is incorrect: While Kerala has a significant elephant population, the highest elephant population in India is found in Karnataka, not Kerala.