Summary:

- The article profiles Parbati Barua, India's first female mahout (elephant caretaker), who has been working with elephants for over three decades. Barua expresses a desire to return to traditional mahout practices, which she believes are more effective and humane than the use of tranquilizers and other modern methods.

- Barua emphasizes the importance of developing a close bond and understanding with the elephants, which she believes is best achieved through traditional mahout training and techniques. She criticizes the overuse of tranquilizers, which she says can be harmful to the elephants and disrupt their natural behavior.

- The article highlights Barua's expertise and her commitment to preserving the traditional mahout profession, which is facing challenges due to the increasing reliance on modern methods. It underscores the need to balance conservation efforts with the welfare and traditional practices of those who work closely with elephants.