The Primary Response Team (PRTs) initiative is a community-based conservation programme developed by the Nature and Wildlife Association (NWA) to strengthen Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) mitigation efforts across North Bengal. Currently, more than 600 trained PRT members are actively engaged across multiple conflict-prone landscapes, forming a strong grassroots network that supports conservation authorities and local communities during elephant movement and conflict situations.
Established in consultation with the concerned Range Forest Officers, PRTs comprise local volunteers with extensive knowledge of their landscapes and communities. These teams act as the first line of response by monitoring elephant movement, disseminating early warnings, assisting in crowd management, promoting safe conflict mitigation practices, and helping reduce risks to both people and wildlife. Working closely with the Forest Department and Quick Response Teams (QRTs), PRT members play a vital role in ensuring timely information flow and coordinated action during emergencies.
To further strengthen communication and rapid response, NWA maintains dedicated WhatsApp communication groups comprising PRT members, Forest Department personnel, and other relevant stakeholders. These platforms facilitate real-time information sharing, coordination, and decision-making during conflict situations.
As part of ongoing capacity-building efforts, NWA regularly conducts training programmes and provides low-cost mitigation support materials to PRT members. All members are equipped with project T-shirts and raincoats, while selected volunteers are provided with torches, walkie-talkies, and other essential field equipment to enhance operational effectiveness. Through community participation, capacity building, and strong institutional collaboration, the PRT initiative continues to promote safer landscapes and foster long-term coexistence between people and elephants across North Bengal.