Over the last ten days, 12 individuals involved in attempted rhino poaching have been arrested in Kaziranga National Park, reaffirming the forest department’s robust intelligence network and community partnerships.

• This reflects a pattern of preventive action that has kept poaching at historic lows.

Key Highlights

1. Steady Decline in Rhino Poaching

• Zero poaching in 2022 – first time since 1977.
• Peak poaching years: 27 rhinos killed in 2013 & 2014.
• Sharp drop: 17 (2015), 18 (2016), 2 in 2020 & 2021.
• Due to:
  • Enhanced surveillance (thermal drones, smart patrolling).
  • Inter-State intelligence coordination with Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Kerala.
  • Strict protection under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

2. Strong Community Partnership

• Villagers in fringe areas act as key informants.
• Eco-development committees support livelihoods.
• Women’s groups engaged in conservation & monitoring.

3. Kaziranga’s Global Recognition

• IUCN assessment praised anti-poaching efforts and stable populations of rhinos and Bengal tigers.
• Expansion of rhinos to Burhachapori, Laokhowa, Majuli highlights healthy populations.

4. Emerging Challenges

• Extreme floods
• Shrinking wetlands & habitat degradation
• Human–wildlife conflict with expanding wildlife ranges
• Need for new forest camps, mapping vulnerabilities, climate-resilient habitat restoration

Conclusion

Kaziranga’s success is built on coordinated policing, advanced surveillance, and people’s participation. But the recent arrests prove that threats persist. Future conservation must balance strict protection with habitat restoration and climate resilience to sustain the park’s remarkable wildlife legacy.

Exam Hook – Prelims 

Kaziranga’s zero rhino-poaching record (2022), strong community-led enforcement, and IUCN recognition make it a key case study for wildlife conservation in India.

MCQs 

Q. With reference to Kaziranga National Park, consider the following statements:

1. It is recognised by IUCN for effective anti-poaching strategies.
   
2. It is the only habitat in India where the one-horned rhinoceros is found.
   
3. Rhinos from Kaziranga have begun dispersing to Burhachapori and Majuli.
   

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A

Source