Mandalao Elephant Conservation and Vantara launch Laos programme

Mandalao Elephant Conservation and the India-based wildlife organization Vantara have launched a joint conservation programme in Laos to improve elephant welfare and veterinary care. The initiative was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at addressing the declining elephant populations in the country.

Laos, historically known as the ‘Land of a Million Elephants’, currently has approximately 400 wild elephants and over 400 in captivity. Both groups face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-elephant conflict. Conservationists note a significant population decline, estimating that roughly 10 elephants die annually compared to only one or two births.

Key components of the programme include the inauguration of an Elephant Rapid Response Team in Luang Prabang and the provision of a fully equipped mobile veterinary unit by Vantara. This unit will allow responders to treat both wild and captive elephants across Laos. The partnership also intends to establish a specialized hospital for emergency treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. These veterinary services will be provided free of charge to elephant owners and relevant government departments.