Brahmaputra’s treasure: Pobitora strengthens Rhino conservation with community support

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 1, 2025

Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra in Morigaon district in Assam, India. Known for its highest density of one-horned rhinos, Pobitora serves as a beacon of successful rhino conservation. This has been made possible by the unwavering efforts of local communities who share their resources and spaces with these majestic creatures.

Premier research-driven biodiversity conservation organization Aaranyak (www.aaranyak.org), in collaboration with Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (PWLS) authority, organized a community consultation and support initiative on December 29. The event aimed to address emerging challenges in conserving one-horned rhinos and explore pathways for sustainable coexistence in the landscape.

Over 70 villagers participated in the consultation, including representatives from Kamarpur, Hatigarh, Sildubi, Nekera Habi, and Chengmari Gaon. The consultation was attended by Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Range Officer Pranjal Baruah, village heads, Eco-Development Committee members, Aaranyak’s Rhino Research and Conservation Division (RRCD) Manager Arif Hussain, researcher Ujjal Bayan, Aaranyak K9 team member Rahul Das, and members of SHIPA, a local conservation group.

During the meeting, representatives of local communities and wildlife authorities agreed to collaborate to mitigate negative human-wildlife interactions and promote rhino conservation. This initiative comes in light of frequent incidents of wildlife straying into agricultural land, including rhinos, wild boars, and buffaloes.

As part of the initiative, 12 Crop Protection Committees/Anti-Depredation Squads (ADS) were formed with representatives from the most affected villages around the sanctuary. These squads, comprising local farmers, were equipped with essential field equipment such as rain gear, warm jackets, and searchlights. These provisions enhanced their capacity to monitor stray animals, protect property, and foster goodwill within the community.

Speaking at the event, Range Officer Pranjal Baruah stressed the importance of maintaining collaboration for successful conservation. Aaranyak’s official Arif Hussain highlighted the critical role of communities in reducing the costs of conservation and securing the future of rhinos.

“This initiative, funded by IUCN (CAG), is expected to strengthen coexistence between local communities and wildlife, reducing the burden on villagers while ensuring the continued success of rhino conservation efforts in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary,” said Dr. Deba Kumar Dutta, Aaranyak’s Senior Manager in RRCD.