Bihar’s Rhino Task Force: Aiming for Rhino Conservation in Valmiki Tiger Reserve

Published on 8 August 2023 by

Rhino Task Force

Bihar’s progressive move in wildlife conservation comes in the form of the newly established ‘Rhino Task Force,’ dedicated to revitalizing rhino populations in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) located in the West Champaran district. This article dives into the state’s commitment to reintroduce and safeguard these majestic creatures.

Reviving Conservation with the Rhino Task Force

Bihar’s government has taken a bold step with the creation of the ‘Rhino Task Force,’ signaling a renewed focus on rhino conservation within the Valmiki Tiger Reserve. With a noteworthy increase in the tiger population in the reserve, attention has now turned to rejuvenating the rhino numbers. Presently, VTR houses only one rhino, with fourteen more in Patna Zoo. The task force aims to play a pivotal role in facilitating the return of more rhinos to their natural habitat, aligning with the broader goals of biodiversity protection.

Strategizing the Rhino Task Force

As part of the National Rhino Conservation Scheme, the Valmiki Tiger Reserve has been earmarked for potential rhino reintroduction from other reserves across the nation. A committee, established two years ago, meticulously assessed the habitat and security conditions within VTR, providing recommendations for successful rhino reintegration.

Charting the Path Ahead for Rhino Reintroduction

Building upon the committee’s suggestions, Bihar’s government has established the ‘Rhino Task Force’ to formulate strategies that ensure the effective implementation of the reintroduction plan. The primary objective is to expand rhino-bearing areas in VTR by 5% over the next two years. This plan involves carefully relocating rhinos from congested habitats to designated zones within the reserve, such as Ganauli and Madanpur, to create optimal conditions for breeding and population growth.

Valmiki Tiger Reserve: A Biodiversity Haven

Valmiki Tiger Reserve, founded in 1990 in Bihar’s West Champaran district, stands as a bastion of tiger conservation. Remarkably, it ranks fourth in tiger population density. A recent surge in tiger numbers, soaring from 31 in 2018 to 54 in 2022, has ignited Bihar’s enthusiasm to expand its wildlife conservation endeavors. The government is even considering transforming the ‘Kaimur wildlife sanctuary (KWC)’ into another tiger reserve or a ‘tiger-bearing landscape’ to further amplify its commitment to protecting the nation’s precious wildlife.

Conclusion

Bihar’s establishment of the ‘Rhino Task Force’ underscores its dedication to restoring rhino populations within the Valmiki Tiger Reserve. Through conservation initiatives and habitat restoration, the state is setting a commendable example in preserving biodiversity and promoting responsible environmental stewardship.