World Rhino Day 2026 fell on September 22, 2026, with its theme "Keep the Five Alive" reminding the world that all five rhino species still need protection. Assam, home to 80% of the world’s one‑horned rhinos, has long been a frontline in this fight.
In a press release, Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that no poaching cases were logged in Assam last year, a first for the state. Over 200 rangers, backed by drone surveillance, patrolled more than 10,000 square kilometers of the Kaziranga and Manas reserves.
Environment Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah said, "The Greater One‑Horned Rhino is our pride and a treasured part of Assam’s rich biodiversity. Under the leadership of Hon’ble CM Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Assam Government has continued to strengthen rhino protection, habitat conservation and anti‑poaching efforts."
Locals in the village of Bhusamra, just outside Kaziranga, say the new patrol presence has made a tangible difference. Ranjit, a 45‑year‑old ranger, noted, "We can now monitor the rhinos 24/7; the threat of poachers has vanished from our daily life."
The state will allocate an additional ₹1.5 billion to expand habitat restoration and community outreach in 2027. A national symposium on rhino conservation is slated for December 2026, where Assam’s success will be highlighted to the international community.