GUWAHATI: Mahouts at Manas National Park in Assam are now being trained to handle elephants without causing them pain. An international program held from February 1-4, 2026, brought experts from Australia’s H-ELP Foundation, Kaziranga National Park, and the Wildlife Trust of India to teach humane training methods. Manas National Park, an 850 sq. km UNESCO World Heritage Site bordering Bhutan, is home to many Asian elephants. The H-ELP (Human-Elephant Training Programs) team introduced new, science-based training to replace older harsh methods. Andrew McLean, lead trainer at H-ELP, told The Hindu, "We worked with mahouts, focusing on welfare-friendly practices that replace traditional methods with positive, pressure-release reinforcement. The training includes voice commands, stick direction, praise, and food rewards." He added the main commands taught are to go back, come forward, lift a leg, or pick things up. This helps with veterinary care and smoother daily interaction. The goal is communication through just voice and hand signals. Wildlife vet Bhaskar Choudhury said, "Some mahouts give elephants the stick treatment out of frustration. This training helps them be gentler with the gentle giants." Master trainer Alom Ali explained, "A calm elephant is a safer elephant. These methods help us handle vet care and daily work without fear or pain. This is the future of elephant management." Younger mahouts also welcomed the change. "I used to think louder commands meant better control," said Dhaneshwar Kherkatary. "Now I understand softer, consistent cues work better because the elephants trust us." Mark Trayling, H-ELP Chairperson, said, "We want master trainers to teach younger mahouts. Australia and India share similar goals in wildlife protection." Manas Field Director C. Ramesh added, "This program shows Manas is part of global conservation efforts. We are proud to lead in elephant welfare and use world-class scientific methods for a kinder world. Collaboration is key." This effort signals a new, kinder era in caring for the majestic Asian elephant population held captive in India and beyond.