New Delhi [India], September 23 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday highlighted India’s progress in the conservation of the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros on the occasion of World Rhino Day, saying the country has emerged as one of the world’s most important custodians of the species, with its population showing sustained growth.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister’s Office said, “India's rhino story is one of remarkable recovery of the species. With the rhino population showing sustained growth, India is now one of the world's most important custodians of the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros. Protecting the grasslands and wetlands that sustain the species is central to its future.”
The PMO further shared that an article by Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav highlights how government efforts are strengthening the conservation journey of the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros.
"This must-read article by Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of India Bhupender Yadav highlights how Government efforts are strengthening the conservation journey," the PMO wrote.
https://x.com/PMOIndia/status/2102681021338530079
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced that 'Project Rhino' has been initiated to extend financial and technical support to range states for the protection, habitat management, and conservation of the greater one-horned rhinoceros.
Announcing the government's dedicated conservation initiative on X, the Prime Minister said, "Taking species conservation in the country forward, I am happy to share that Project Rhino has been initiated for financial and technical support to the range states for protection, habitat management, genetic improvement and understanding population dynamics."
The Prime Minister celebrated the iconic species and commended the tireless efforts of forest personnel and conservationists at the forefront of wildlife protection.
"On World Rhino Day, we celebrate the magnificent greater one-horned rhinoceros and laud all those at the forefront of its protection," PM Modi posted.
Highlighting Assam's pivotal role in global rhino conservation, the Prime Minister noted, "Assam now holds nearly 80% of the world's rhino population and Kaziranga's efforts to end rhino poaching have been extensively appreciated."
PM Modi also underscored the progress made in rhino conservation and reintroduction across other Indian states, pointing to successful efforts in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal.
"On one hand, rhinos have either returned or are well protected in parts of Bihar and West Bengal. On the other hand, the success of reintroduction of rhinos in Dudhwa (Uttar Pradesh) is creating history. This shows the sustained commitment of our people towards animal protection and active wildlife management in the range states," he added.