GUWAHATI
Kaziranga and different protected habitats of the one-horned rhinoceros in Assam recorded an 86% drop in poaching of the herbivore since 2016, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma mentioned.
In an announcement marking the celebration of World Rhino Day on Sunday, the Chief Minister attributed the turnaround – poachers killed 190 rhinos between 2000 and 2021 – to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “commitment to promoting and preserving” an animal that has been “synonymous to the identity” of Assam.
“Since the double-engine government took charge (of Assam) in 2016, poaching has dropped by 86%,” he mentioned, referring to the rhino because the crown jewel of the biodiversity of the Northeastern area.
“Ever since we assumed office, we have taken various initiatives to protect the prized species, expand its habitat, and ensure its safety,” he added.
Taking to X, the Prime Minister reiterated the Centre’s dedication to defending the rhinos and complimented all these concerned in its conservation efforts for years. “It is a matter of immense pride that India is home to a large number of one-horned rhinos. I also fondly recall my visit to Kaziranga in Assam and urge you all to visit there as well,” he mentioned.
Greater than 2,850 rhinos had been recorded over the last census of the animal in 2022. The Kaziranga Nationwide Park and Tiger Reserve, measuring about 1,300 sq. km, housed an estimated 2,613 of those animals adopted by the 28.30 sq. km Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (107) and the 279.83 sq. km Orang Nationwide Park (101).
‘Kaziranga model’
Wildlife officers in Assam mentioned the ‘Kaziranga model’ has turn into a template for conservation in lots of rhino-bearing areas throughout the globe. Other than a commando-like particular safety power deployed and a “zero tolerance policy”, the park has an anti-poaching and surveillance camp each 5.82 sq. km.
The Kaziranga Nationwide Park and Tiger Reserve has 233 anti-poaching camps, every manned by three to 5 personnel.
“This year, we expressed our gratitude to the local communities living on the periphery of the tiger reserve. They play a vital role in our conservation efforts,” Kaziranga’s Director Sonali Ghosh mentioned. The present of gratitude included a procession that includes a rhino reproduction in areas adjoining the tiger reserve.
Revealed – September 23, 2024 03:44 am IST
