Assam’s rhino count up 5 fold since 1960s

dhrubajyoti malakar / Sep 23, 2024, 04:34 IST

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Assam’s rhino count up 5 fold since 1960s

Guwahati: Assam recorded a five-time increase in the population of one-horned Rhinoceros in nearly six decades from 1960s to 2024. Highlighting the state’s remarkable journey in conserving the pachyderms, official records of the Assam govt revealed the data on the occasion of World Rhino Day on Sunday.
The state currently has over 3,000 rhinos, which was approximately 600 in the 1960s.
Out of the total rhino population in the country, 80% of it reside in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR), 4% in Orang National Park, 3% found in Pobitora wildlife Sanctuary and 1% in Manas National Park.
Apart from Assam, 9% of the country’s total rhino population is found in Jaldapara National Park and 2% is in Gorumara National Park in West Bengal and 1% resides in Dudhwa National Park in Uttar Pradesh.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma attributed the increase of its population in the state to various conservation initiatives taken by govt. He also reaffirmed the govt’s commitment to protect the species. “Rhinos are synonymous to the identity of Assam. They are our pride and the crown jewel of our biodiversity. Ever since we assumed office, we have taken various initiatives to protect the prized species, expand its habitat and ensure its safety,” Sarma wrote on X.

Mentioning govt’s various initiatives towards rhino conservation on his X handle, the CM highlighted habitat expansion and restoration efforts in different areas. He said around 200.79 sqkm has been added in Orang National Park and 195 sqkm in Burachapori wildlife sanctuary. In addition to that, 12.82 sqkm rhino habitat restored and freed from encroachment in Laokhowa-Burachapori complex, facilitating the return of rhinos.
Sarma also highlighted the efforts of the government and local communities in protecting the species listed as “vulnerable” in IUCN red list, from poaching activities. “Assam’s rhinos are safer than ever. Since the Double Engine government took charge in 2016, poaching has dropped by 86%,” Sarma wrote on X.

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