India, Aug. 26 -- Accident cover for Mahouts, Kavadis hiked from Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 20 lakh

Property damage cover doubled to Rs. 1 crore; Total coverage Rs. 8.80 cr.

Mysuru: In a significant change to the annual insurance scheme for the Dasara elephant squad, the Forest Department has decided not to insure the elephants this year.

Instead, the insurance coverage has been enhanced for Mahouts, Kavadis and frontline staff, besides increasing the cover for compensation towards property damage.

Traditionally, the elephants brought to Mysuru for the Dasara festivities were insured every year along with their handlers. In 2025, all 14 Dasara elephants, their Mahouts, Kavadis, supporting staff and public properties were insured for a total su...