Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for the Sri Lankan elephant to be officially designated as the country's National Animal, linking the symbolic recognition to concrete commitments addressing human-elephant conflict and habitat protection.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has proposed that the Sri Lankan elephant be formally recognised as the nation's National Animal, positioning the move as part of a broader conservation and coexistence strategy. Making the statement on World Elephant Day, Premadasa argued that such recognition should extend beyond ceremonial significance to represent genuine national commitment to protecting both wildlife and rural communities.

Premadasa highlighted the deteriorating situation facing both elephants and farming communities, noting that habitat loss and the shrinking of traditional elephant ranges have intensified conflicts in rural areas. The resulting human-elephant conflict has created significant challenges, with farmers experiencing crop destruction and livelihood losses while elephant populations face mounting pressures. Premadasa emphasised that addressing this crisis requires protecting both species and people simultaneously, rather than prioritising one over the other.

The opposition leader outlined a framework for national action centred on science-based conservation practices, habitat and corridor protection, and responsible development planning. His proposal includes practical measures aimed at safeguarding rural livelihoods while preventing harm to elephants. Premadasa called for coexistence to become an explicit national commitment, with the ultimate goal of creating conditions where rural communities can live securely and elephant populations can thrive without persecution. He framed the initiative as honouring Sri Lanka's historical and cultural relationship with elephants while accepting contemporary responsibility for their welfare.