1. Introduction

Chapter 1 is an introductory chapter. This chapter initially focusses on the issue of human–elephant conflict worldwide, with special emphasis on the countries of South East Asia and Africa because in these areas the problem is severe. A large body of literature was critically reviewed to understand the severity of the problem. It is also helpful to become familiar with previous research, including the methodology and perspective of work done in this field. This chapter also suggests the causes and consequences of human–elephant conflict throughout the elephant habitats of the world. Next, it focusses on the typical characteristics of human–elephant conflict in the author’s study area, West Bengal state. A detailed introduction of the study area is given, and a location map, administrative units, forest units, ecological background and more information are provided. Research questions are delineated and objectives (both general and specific objectives) are set accordingly. The objectives cover different dimensions to the issue, such as characterising elephant habitats, analysing elephant migration behaviour, assessing habitat intervention and its consequences, modelling the habitat–elephant relationship and studying the nature of human–elephant conflict. The text describes data collection procedures as well as the methodologies adopted here.