Guwahati, September 16: Assam, home to the vast majority of the world’s greater one-horned rhinoceroses, has posted another significant success in wildlife protection. The state recorded no known cases of rhino poaching throughout 2025, marking only the second time this has been achieved since the 1970s. The first such year was 2022.
According to the International Rhino Foundation’s 2026 State of the Rhino report, Assam now shelters an estimated 3,260 of these iconic animals — nearly 80 per cent of the global population of around 4,075. Kaziranga National Park alone accounts for more than 2,600 rhinos, the largest concentration anywhere, while Manas National Park holds roughly 40 to 50.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the figures, noting that Assam remains a vital stronghold for a species once pushed to the brink. Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah described the zero-poaching record as a matter of pride and responsibility, crediting dedicated forest staff, improved surveillance, stronger intelligence networks, coordinated enforcement and the active involvement of local communities.
The turnaround is striking when set against Assam’s recent history. In the mid-2010s the state lost nearly 30 rhinos to poachers in single years. Sustained efforts have since driven a sharp decline, with poaching falling dramatically over the past decade.
Nepal also reported zero known poaching of greater one-horned rhinos in 2025. While Assam has now matched that success for a second time, conservationists say the next challenge is clear: safeguarding and improving habitat quality to support the growing population for the long term.
The achievement underscores how focused protection measures can reverse decades of pressure on one of Asia’s most distinctive wildlife species.