Dr Bibhab Talukdar Lauds PM Modi’s Rhino Conservation Efforts Ahead of World Rhino Day

On the eve of World Rhino Day 2024, internationally recognized wildlife expert Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his initiatives to conserve the greater one-horned rhinos. He highlighted significant reductions in rhino poaching in Assam due to government efforts and underscored the importance of continued vigilance and support.

On the eve of World Rhino Day 2024, internationally acclaimed wildlife expert Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visionary initiatives aimed at conserving and protecting the greater one-horned rhinos in India. World Rhino Day is celebrated on 22 September every year by the World Wildlife Fund and other international organizations.

Speaking to ANI, Dr. Talukdar highlighted the remarkable decline in rhino poaching incidents in Assam, attributing this success to the government's dedicated conservation efforts. "The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Kaziranga showcased his commitment to rhino conservation. This commitment has proven to be an effective tool for ensuring the protection of rhinos. The success achieved in recent years must be sustained to ensure continuous progress," he stated. Noting the significant successes thus far, Dr. Talukdar expressed optimism that the rhino population in Assam could reach 3,000 in the next few years.

Dr. Talukdar also emphasized the importance of the government's zero-tolerance policy against rhino poachers, who often operate with sophisticated weapons. "The Assam government has modernized its forest protection force to combat these well-armed intruders. Wildlife trafficking remains one of the highest illegal trades globally, trailing only behind narcotics, human trafficking, and arms smuggling. Illegal hunting of rhinos thus demands the government's unwavering attention. I commend the government's past and present efforts and hope for continued vigilance against wildlife smugglers," he added. The expert underscored that rhinos are symbolic of Assam's conservation movement and must be preserved for future generations.

Highlighting Assam's historical role in rhino conservation, Dr. Talukdar pointed out that the state has significantly increased the rhino population and expanded its habitat over the last 120 years. He noted the stark reduction in poaching incidents, with only two rhinos lost in the past two years compared to 41 in 2013. No rhino poaching cases were reported in 2022. He praised the state government's proactive measures to protect rhinos, including bolstering forest staff and involving local police.

Dr. Talukdar elaborated on Assam's successful conservation history, mentioning that the Assam Rhino Conservation initiative began in 1905. Since then, notable improvements have been seen, such as the upgrade of Kaziranga to a National Park in 1966 and the increase in its rhino population from 366 to over 2,600 today. Despite setbacks in the 1980s and 1990s due to socio-political unrest, Assam has made significant strides. He also noted the reintroduction of rhinos in Manas National Park from Kaziranga and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, bringing Manas' rhino population to nearly 50.

He concluded by urging the people of Assam to support the government's continued conservation efforts and noted the expansion of protected areas across the state. "The government's sustained efforts are crucial to ensure that future generations can witness rhinos in the wild," Dr. Talukdar emphasized.

(With inputs from agencies.)