Various media outlets covering the success Assam achieved in Rhino conservation
Key points
The rhino population has surged by approximately 170 percent since the 1980s, growing from 1,500 to over 4,014 today.
Van Durgas: The term “Van Durga” is derived from “Van” (forest) and “Durga,” symbolizing the goddess of strength and protection. These women act as forest guards, protectors of wildlife, and custodians of ecological balance, playing a significant role in preventing illegal activities such as poaching, deforestation, and wildlife trafficking.
An expansion of over 200 sq km in Orang National Park and the reclaiming of 12.82 sq km in Laokhowa-Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary, emphasizes habitat growth for rhinos.
Newly declared protected areas, such as Siknajhar National Park and Poba Wildlife Sanctuary, show Assam’s commitment to securing habitats for rhinos and other wildlife.
Historic burning of 2,479 rhino horns to symbolize Assam’s zero-tolerance policy towards poaching.
A number of legal measures have been taken for Rhino protection both pre and post-independence. These measures include the Assam Forest Protection Act of 1891 and the Bengal Rhinoceros Preservation Act of 1932, which prohibited the killing, injuring, or capturing of rhinos, except in self-defense or under license.
After independence, the Assam Rhino Protection Act of 1954 reinforced these protections. Further, the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 and its Assam amendment in 2009 increased penalties for poaching, introducing harsher sentences, including life imprisonment for repeat offenders, and higher fines to deter illegal activities.
The Indian Rhino Vision 2005 program also bolstered conservation efforts.
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