Source: DH
Context: The Wildlife Institute of India has proposed a national action plan for translocation of one-horned rhinoceroses to reduce habitat pressure in Assam’s Kaziranga and Pobitora, through reintroduction in new protected areas across five states.
About One-Horned Rhinoceros:
- Scientific Name: Rhinoceros unicornis
- IUCN Status: Vulnerable
- Habitat: Terai grasslands, alluvial floodplains, swamps, and subtropical savannahs.
- Key Features:
- Largest of all Asian rhino species with a height of 5.75–6.5 ft and weight up to 6,000 pounds.
- Recognisable by its single black horn (8–25 inches) and armour-plated skin folds.
- Solitary grazers that feed on grasses, aquatic plants, shrubs, and fruits.
- Key Protected Areas for One-Horned Rhinos as of now in India:
- Kaziranga National Park (Assam) – Largest population (~2,613 as of 2022).
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam) – Highest rhino density (107 rhinos in 16 sq. km).
- Jaldapara National Park (West Bengal)
- Gorumara National Park (West Bengal)
- Dudhwa National Park (Uttar Pradesh)
Proposed Translocation Sites under New Action Plan:
- Assam: Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (Reintroduction of 5 rhinos within 13 years.)
- West Bengal: Gorumara & Jaldapara National Parks (Exchange and introduction of 5 rhinos every 3 years from Kaziranga and Pobitora.)
- Arunachal Pradesh: D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary (Suitable for long-term reintroduction of 5 rhinos.)
- Bihar: Valmiki Tiger Reserve
- Uttar Pradesh: Dudhwa National Park, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary
- Uttarakhand: Surai Range
NOTE: From the Prelims 2025 perspective, focus more on the proposed new national parks for the translocation of the one-horned rhinoceros. Remember their names and corresponding states.
