The focus of the discussion had fell on the with difficulties that have arisen due to the shortage of tamed elephants for Perahera ceremonies. Maha Sangha and the representatives of the Tamed Elephant Owners’ Association were present at the discussion, the PMD added. The owners of the tamed elephants have noted that it takes about 3 years to train an elephant or a tusker to take part in a Perahera. President Rajapaksa has stated that he strongly believes that the country needs a herd of tamed elephants as it is part of our culture of Perahera tradition. The President also instructed the officials to hold discussions with the owners of the tamed elephants in formulating conditions for the regulation and conservation of tamed elephants.

Source: The Nation March 13, 2021 04:00 UTC