Mudumalai (Tamil Nadu), Mar 15 : The death of Subramani, a dedicated elephant that was the strength of the Forest Department in Mudumalai Range of Tamil Nadu, has not only shocked officials, but other elephants.

Subramani was a Kumki (a tame and trained elephant) and aged around 57 years at the time of its death. Its last rites were performed on Saturday.

When it was alive, it had participated in many operations such as driving out wild elephants from nearby human habitations.

Subramani was injured during one such operation and attacked by a stampeding herd.

Although it was treated by veterinarians of the Forest Department, kidney failure caused its death.

"Subramani was the employee of the Forest Department and his retirement was yet to come. Another one year was there for his service. We are all shocked," said Sanjay Srivatsava, Conservator of Forests, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve Range, Nilgiris.

Subramani was buried with due respect by staff members of the Forest Department and villagers.

Among the participants were other elephants of the Forest Department in the Mudumalai Range.

Subramani was born in the year 1960. It was brought to Mudumalai at the age of six, and since then, had been the most active elephant of the forest department. (ANI)