Iconic species Rhino population touches 3,000 mark in Assam

In Assam, series of events were organized at Kohora Convention Centre, Kaziranga National Park to mark the World Rhino Day on Sunday. It included Conservation Rally, Jungle Safari Skill Upgradation Training and Unique Salary account ‘Project Van Rakshak’- a new scheme by Axis Bank for Forest Frontline workers. The outreach activities aimed at raising public awareness about rhino conservation. These initiatives were designed to engage the community and highlight the importance of protecting the one-horned rhino, a species synonymous with Kaziranga and Assam’s biodiversity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a post on X, expressed his commitment to protecting rhinos, one of the planet's most iconic species. He commended those involved in rhino conservation efforts over the years and highlighted India's pride in being home to a large population of one-horned rhinos, primarily in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park. He fondly recalled his own visit to Kaziranga and encouraged others to visit the park as well.

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… pic.twitter.com/VbUcQkeVZv

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 22, 2024

On this occasion  Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, through his social media post,  called rhinos the "pride and crown jewel" of the state's biodiversity. Dr. Sarma highlighted the various initiatives taken by his government since assuming office to protect the one-horned rhinos, expand their habitat, and ensure their safety.

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.

On #WorldRhinoDay, we reaffirm… pic.twitter.com/riVfgs9qIl

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 22, 2024

According to official records, the Rhino population in Assam has risen to 3,000 as per latest census this year. In 1960, the Rhino population in the State was only 600. The increase in Rhino population is the result of massive conservation efforts, including- expansion of Rhino habitat and awareness programmes launched by successive State Governments.

(State Correspondent)