It was first announced World Wildlife Fund – South Africa In 2010, the day was conceived to draw attention to rampant poaching and habitat destruction, which had caused the rhino population to decline to about 30,000 by 2010.
Rhinos face a number of serious problems that threaten their survival. Most notably, climate change poses a long-term threat by altering habitats and reducing food availability. World Rhino Day serves as a global platform to raise awareness and advocate for the conservation of all five rhino species: the black rhino, white rhinoceros, large one-horned rhinocerosthe Javan rhino, and Sumatran RhinocerosSeveral national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India contribute to rhinoceros conservation, including Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, Jaldapara National Park in West Bengal, Dudhwa National Park in Uttar Pradesh and Manas National Park in Assam. Kaziranga National ParkBoth are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
One-horned rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park in Assam (Image: iStock)
In particular, Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam is home to more than 2,613 Greater One-Horned Rhinos, making it one of the most densely populated parks for this species. Rhinos are special not only for their impressive size and prehistoric appearance but also for their vital role in the ecosystem. As large herbivores, they significantly impact their environment by shaping the landscape, dispersing seeds, and maintaining ecological balance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site prides itself on the revival of the Greater One-Horned Rhino population, a species endemic to India. The park’s remarkable biodiversity also includes a large population of wild water buffalo, as well as other endangered species such as the Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, and eastern swamp deer.
To strengthen the conservation framework in Kaziranga, the Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF) has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve. The agreement includes a grant of Rs 6 crore over three years, aimed at setting up a monitoring centre and housing units for frontline workers who play a vital role in protecting the park’s invaluable biodiversity. The collaborative effort between AAF’s animal welfare project, The Animal Care Organisation (TACO) and Kaziranga National Park is set to enhance the park’s surveillance and protection measures, creating a safer environment for these magnificent creatures.
Expressing his support for this initiative, Hon’ble Shri Chandra Mohan Patwari, Minister of Environment & Forests, Government of Assam said, “Kaziranga National Park is a treasure not just of Assam but of the entire world. We are committed to support TACO’s initiative ‘Mission Vanraksha’, which will provide a monitoring centre to maintain zero-poaching zones in our state and promote conservation and sustainability. Establishing housing units for forest frontline workers is a vital component of this initiative, ensuring that those protecting our heritage are well supported. The well-being of frontline workers will help them maintain the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of Kaziranga.”
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Limited and Non-Executive Director, Vedanta Limited, who is also driving the TACO project, emphasised the importance of the partnership, saying, “This MoU is particularly significant as it focuses on improving facilities for frontline workers, including the ‘Van Durgas’ or women forest guards, who drive conservation activities in Kaziranga. I am glad that TACO will contribute to the ongoing efforts with the Government of Assam to preserve the unique ecosystem of the region while supporting the green warriors of the forest. Together, we will create a sustainable model that will benefit both wildlife and local communities.”
The proactive steps taken by the Anil Agarwal Foundation, through TACO, represent a comprehensive approach. wildlife Conservation and setting new standards for animal welfare. The project will also provide the necessary infrastructure for forest guards and staff in the Bokakhat town area, including housing units and a monitoring center aimed at maintaining a zero-poaching zone. This initiative underscores TACO’s commitment to a holistic ‘One Health’ approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of people, animals, plants, and their shared environment.
