Coimbatore:
The annual rejuvenation camp for temple elephants in Tamil Nadu began at Thekkampatti on the banks of Bhavani river near Mettupalayam, 50 kilometres from Coimbatore on Monday.
Two 60-year old elephants are among the 33 elephants attending the 48-day camp, organised by the Hindu and Religious and Charitable Endowments Department.
HR and CE minister M S M Anandan told reporters that Rs 75 lakh would be spent for the camp.
The location was preferred due to the availability of plenty of fodder and water from Upper Bhavani, he said.
The food and necessary supplements would be provided to the elephants, based on its age and weight, which would be prepared with the chart given by veterinarians.
Special arrangements have been made for mahouts and their assistants, who will be given orientation course to take the elephants both medically and psychologically.