zero Indian rhinos poached for the first time in 45 years

(Guwahati, India – 17 January 2023) – The announcement that no rhinos have been poached in 2022 in the Indian state of Assam has been heralded as a global conservation success.

IFAW and WTI (Wildlife Trust of India) congratulate the Assam government and local communities on this achievement, which marks the first time there have been zero poaching incidents in the region in 45 years.

Assam, home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos, has nearly 2,900 animals across the region today. The species was once widespread across the entire northern region of India, but were pushed to the brink of extinction due to poaching in the early '90s. Thanks to conservation efforts, the species has now doubled across north-eastern India.

“This incredible achievement sets an example globally on how we can change the narrative and improve the future for a species. This remarkable achievement follows strong public action on burning 2,500 rhino horns seized from poachers last year,” said Dr. Rathin Barman, WTI's Joint Director and Chief, Strategy & Liaison for North East India.

Added Jimmiel Mandima, IFAW’s Vice President of Global Programs: “IFAW and WTI have been honoured to work alongside the Assam government and communities on the long-term enforcement and reduction of rhino horn poaching, as well as the vital recovery of rhino habitats such as Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park. We will continue to be here in Assam to support this work on the ground, doing what we do best, with the government and communities.”

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced via Twitter that the state had recorded zero Indian rhinos poached last year.

According to Assam authorities, the last recorded date a rhino was poached was on 28 December 2021.

ENDS

Press contact:

Stacey Hedman
+1 508 737 2558,
shedman@ifaw.org