The Great Indian One-horned Rhino is the pride of Assam. The gigantic Goliath is an integral part of our culture and social fabric, like Bihu, Brahmaputra and Kamaksha. Many songs and legends are woven around rhino and Kaziranga. This imposing animal is revered as the ‘Bahan’ or carriage of Lord Bishnu. Assam takes pride in having more than 65 percent of the world’s total population of the Indian Rhino. We affectionately call it Gorh. Kaziranga National Part – KNP, in upper Assam, is the prime habitat of this mega animal, and a prehistoric relic of ancient times. This protected area is also a symbol of effective protection given to this beautiful animal, whose population has risen from a meager of 12 individuals during 1908, to more than 1,500 today. The total population of Great Indian One-horned Rhino in India and Nepal may now be about 2,500. This is a success story, which has very few parallels in the world. But we cannot remain complacent. Such phenomenal increase in rhino population has not come about by itself. The Government of Assam had initiated timely measures to conserve forests and protect rhino. Hard work, sweat and blood of several forest workers have gone into bringing this species to somewhat respectable status. Our brave forest and police officers, duly supported by nature loving people, have made great sacrifices to protect the rhino and its other wild associates. Salutations and Namaskars to such unsung heroes.
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