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The recent deaths of 10 elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve have sparked an investigation that has unearthed a chilling historical parallel. A 90-year-old report detailing the deaths of 14 elephants in Vannathiparai Reserve Forest, Tamil Nadu, due to kodo millet poisoning has emerged, drawing a disturbing connection to the current situation in Bandhavgarh. The report, authored by R.C. Morris, F.Z.S. (Fellow of the Zoological Society), and dated May 22, 1934, offers a chilling glimpse into the dangers of this millet, known locally as 'Varagu,' and the potential consequences of its consumption by elephants.
Morris's meticulous report, published in the journal of the Bombay Natural History Society, highlights the occasional toxicity of ripe 'Varagu,' despite its seemingly innocuous appearance. He emphasizes the importance of verifying the safety of this millet before consumption, suggesting either cooking and tasting a small quantity or observing the condition of cattle during the threshing season. As a potential antidote, Morris suggests the administration of large quantities of tamarind water or buttermilk, a practice that has been passed down through generations in local communities.
Morris's research delved into the ecological impacts of human activities and the intricate relationships between wildlife and agricultural practices. He documented the circumstances surrounding the 1933 elephant deaths, recounting the discovery of 11 elephants in patta fields and 3 in the adjoining Reserve. Tragically, all the elephants in the fields succumbed to the poisoning, while the three in the Reserve succumbed later despite exhibiting signs of distress. The post-mortem examinations conducted by the Veterinary Surgeon of Periyakulam revealed the presence of kodo millet poisoning as the cause of death.
Morris's report sheds light on the recurring nature of this issue, noting a similar incident of kodo millet poisoning affecting elephants in the same area several years earlier. He identified the poisonous variety of kodo millet as 'Kiruku Varagu,' underscoring its potential to cause severe harm. The report further details the villagers' efforts to save the remaining elephants by providing water and tamarind fruit, suggesting a possible role for tamarind in mitigating the effects of the poison.
The kodo millet, scientifically known as Kodra (Paspalum scrobiculatum Linn.), is recognized for its potential toxic properties, affecting both humans and animals. Morris noted the presence of a narcotic principle in the grain and straw of Kodra, leading to vomiting and vertigo. The report highlights precautions taken in the Konkan region to prevent cattle from accessing Kodra fields, recognizing the inherent risks associated with this millet.
The toxic principle within Kodra, Morris explains, emerges under specific climatic and seasonal conditions, making the grain poisonous only at certain times of the year. He suggests that the narcotic property can be neutralized by steeping the grain in cow dung and water or by storing it for several years. Morris further highlights the difficulties in distinguishing between poisonous and non-poisonous Kodra, noting the cultivators' ability to detect diseased grain during threshing through the effects of the toxic dust on both the threshing bullocks and their handlers.
Morris concludes by detailing the symptoms of Kodra poisoning, emphasizing their resemblance to those caused by Datura. He notes that these symptoms are more severe in cattle than in humans, likely due to the consumption of both grain and husk without the benefit of vomiting. The historical account of the 1934 elephant deaths due to kodo millet poisoning, unearthed by forest department officials investigating the recent deaths in Bandhavgarh, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by this millet, especially to wildlife.
The report has sparked renewed scrutiny and calls for a thorough investigation into the recent elephant deaths in Bandhavgarh. Wildlife activist Ajay Dubey has demanded a CBI inquiry, accusing some officials of a delayed response. The historical report's relevance to the current situation highlights the importance of understanding the potential threats posed by common agricultural practices to wildlife and the need for proactive measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.