Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asserted that the Central Government is committed to protecting rhinos and urged people to visit Kaziranga National Park (KNP). He said this on September 22 while celebrating World Rhino Day.
Taking to micro-blogging site X, PM Modi wrote, “Today, on #WorldRhinoDay, let us reiterate our commitment to protect one of our planet’s most iconic species — rhinos. Compliments to all those involved in rhino conservation efforts over the last many years. It is a matter of immense pride that India is home to a large number of one horned rhinos.”
He recalled his visit to KNP and appealed to people to visit the UNESCO World Heritage site which is the largest home to one-horned rhinoceros. “I also fondly recall my visit to Kaziranga in Assam and urge you all to visit there as well,” the PM added in his tweet posted on the occasion.
The Prime Minister visited KNP in March this year and stayed there overnight. He also took elephant and jeep safaris during his visit.
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that the State has seen a 86% drop in rhino poaching since 2016. In his post on the day, the Chief Minister attributed the turnaround 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%,” said Dr. Sarma.
In another post, the Chief Minister called rhinos the “pride and crown jewel” of the State’s biodiversity. “Ever since we assumed office, we have taken various initiatives to protect the prized species, expand its habitat, and ensure its safety,” the Chief Minister added.
In a significant milestone, Assam has achieved a remarkable feat in 2022 by not reporting a single case of rhino poaching underscoring the effectiveness of its conservation efforts.
Chandra Mohan Patowary, the Minister for Environment & Forests, said that one of Assam’s most iconic treasures—the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros not only embodies the pride of Assam but also symbolises the resilience of conservation efforts in the State.
According to the Rhino Census of 2022, Assam has 2,895 rhinos – 2,613 of them in the 1,300 sq km KNP and Tiger Reserve, a World Heritage Site. Orang National Park and Tiger Reserve, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve have 125, 107 and 50 rhinos respectively.
The World Rhino Day was also celebrated in KNP with a series of outreach activities aimed at raising awareness on rhino conservation. These initiatives were designed to engage the community and highlight the importance of protecting the one-horned rhino.
The day commenced with a Rhino Tableau Rally aimed at promoting the importance of rhino conservation, drawing participation from local communities, gypsy safari associations, forest staff, NGOs and wildlife enthusiasts. This year, a programme aimed at providing refresher training to about 700 Gypsy safari drivers and mahouts on visitor safety and enhancement of visitor experience has been planned with funding support from Assam Skill Development Mission.
