Assam Sees 86% Drop in Rhino Poaching Since 2016, Says CM Sarma

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced an 86% reduction in rhino poaching in Assam since 2016, coinciding with World Rhino Day. He credited the success to the “double engine” BJP government and emphasized the importance of rhinos to Assam’s identity and biodiversity.

Sarma highlighted a significant increase in the one-horned rhino population, growing from 600 in the 1960s to over 3,000 today. Around 80% of India’s rhinos live in Kaziranga, with others in Orang, Pobitora, and Manas.

Despite the progress, one poaching case was reported in 2024, when a female rhino was killed near Kaziranga’s Maklung forest camp. In 2022, Assam reported zero rhino poaching cases.