Kaziranga Sees 86% Drop in Rhino Poaching Since 2016

September 23, 2024

Kaziranga National Park in Assam has achieved a remarkable 86% reduction in rhino poaching since 2016. This success was highlighted by Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during World Rhino Day, showing that ongoing efforts to protect the one-horned rhinoceros are paying off.

Why was Poaching a Big Problem?

Between 2000 and 2021, poachers killed 190 rhinos in Assam. The main reason for poaching is the illegal trade of rhino horns, which are highly valued in traditional medicine and as status symbols in some parts of the world. Protecting the one-horned rhino is not just about saving an animal—it’s essential for preserving Assam’s biodiversity.

Government’s Commitment to Rhino Protection

The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has made protecting the one-horned rhino a key priority. When the “double-engine government” (referring to the strong state and central government partnership) took office in 2016, they introduced more focused conservation strategies to safeguard these animals.

What Conservation Steps Have Been Taken?

Several actions have been put in place since 2016 to ensure the safety and survival of rhinos:

Increased Protection: New anti-poaching camps were set up, and a special protection force was created to guard the rhinos.

Expanded Habitat: Efforts were made to increase the rhinos’ natural habitat, giving them more space to thrive.

The “Kaziranga model” of conservation has gained global recognition for its success in protecting rhinos. Anti-poaching camps are established every 5.82 square kilometers, with 233 camps across the park. These camps are staffed with dedicated personnel who work to keep poachers at bay.

How the Local Community Helps

Local communities play an important role in protecting rhinos. The government has involved these communities in the conservation process and thanked them for their help. This has strengthened the bond between the people and wildlife protection efforts.

Current Rhino Population

According to the 2022 census, there are now over 2,850 one-horned rhinos in Assam. Kaziranga alone is home to 2,613 of them, which is a clear sign that the protective measures and community involvement are working well.

About Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, India. It’s known for having the world’s largest population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Covering an area of over 430 square kilometers, the park features a range of ecosystems, from grasslands and marshlands to dense forests. Established in 1905 to protect rhinos, the park is also home to more than 300 bird species and endangered animals like the Bengal tiger and Asian elephant. Its success in wildlife conservation is largely due to effective anti-poaching measures and community support.

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