The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is set to take on a broader role in elephant conservation, with plans underway to transform the facility into both an elephant research centre and a breeding centre.
Environment Minister Mr. Dammika Patabendi announced the proposal during a media briefing in Colombo on Monday (08th June), outlining a series of measures aimed at developing elephant conservation and management.
According to the Minister, the initiative is intended to expand Pinnawala’s contribution beyond its traditional role of caring for elephants.
“We hope to develop the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage as a research centre for elephants and also as an elephant breeding centre,” Patabendi said.
Expanding the Role of Pinnawala
The proposed development would position Pinnawala as a centre for scientific research, conservation studies, and breeding programmes focused on the long-term protection of elephants.
Authorities believe research and data-driven conservation strategies will play an increasingly important role in addressing challenges related to elephant populations and habitat management.
The breeding component is also expected to support broader conservation objectives while enhancing knowledge about elephant health, behaviour, and reproduction.
Review of Domesticated Elephant Management
The Minister also announced plans to appoint a committee representing all relevant stakeholders to examine the future use of domesticated elephants for cultural and religious activities.
According to Patabendi, the committee will be tasked with developing a long-term framework that balances cultural traditions with animal welfare and conservation considerations.
“We intend to appoint a committee representing all stakeholders to prepare a programme on how domesticated elephants can be provided for cultural activities in the future,” he said.
Human-Elephant Conflict Plan to Be Revived
The Minister further revealed that authorities have informed the Supreme Court of plans to update and implement a national action plan developed by experts in 2020 to address the human-elephant conflict.
According to Patabendi, the strategy was prepared by specialists but was never supported by the legal mechanisms required for implementation.
“There is a programme prepared by experts in 2020 to address the human-elephant conflict. However, the legal mechanisms required to implement that programme were never put in place. We have decided to update that plan and move forward with its implementation,” he said.
The move signals renewed attention on one of the country’s most pressing wildlife management challenges, while placing greater emphasis on research, conservation, and long-term planning.
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Last modified: June 9, 2026
