Project Ashwatthama is a pioneering initiative of NWA aimed at securing a sustainable future for elephants in North Bengal through the scientific identification and monitoring of individual conflict-prone loner elephants. As Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) continues to increase across forest fringes, agricultural landscapes, and human-dominated areas, the project focuses on understanding the behaviour, movement patterns, and conflict history of solitary male elephants that are frequently involved in crop raiding and other conflict incidents.

The project utilizes a digital reporting system that enables real-time documentation of elephant sightings through photographs, geotagged locations, behavioral observations, and morphological characteristics. Individual elephants are identified using unique features such as tusk shape, ear patterns, tail morphology, body structure, scars, and behavioural traits. This information is compiled into a centralized database that helps track recurring conflict-causing elephants across landscapes.

Implemented across key elephant habitats and conflict zones of North Bengal, including Kurseong, Mahananda, Baikunthapur, Jalpaiguri, Gorumara, Chapramari, Jaldapara, Cooch Behar, and Buxa landscapes, the project strengthens coordination between local communities, Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), and Forest Department personnel. By combining technology, field observations, and community participation, Project Ashwatthama is generating valuable insights that support evidence-based conflict mitigation, improve rapid response planning, and contribute to the long-term conservation of elephants and the promotion of human-elephant coexistence in North Bengal.