Guwahati: Premier research-driven biodiversity conservation organisation of the region Aaranyak in collaboration with Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (PWLS) authority organized a community consultation and support initiative to address emerging challenges in respect of conservation of one-horned rhinos in the landscape as well as to explore ways for sustainable coexistence.
Over 70 villagers participated in the consultation, including representatives from Kamarpur, Hatigarh, Sildubi, Nekera Habi, and Chengmari Gaon. The consultation was attended by Range Officer of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Pranjal Baruah, heads of respective villages, members of the Eco-Development Committee, Aaranyak’s Manager in Rhino Research and Conservation Division (RRCD) Arif Hussain, Aaranyak’s researcher Ujjal Bayan, a member of the Aaranyak K9 team Rahul Das and members of SHIPA, a local conservation group.
In the meeting, representatives of local communities and wildlife authorities agreed for collaborative efforts to mitigate negative human-wildlife interactions and promote rhino conservation in view of the 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 are meant for enhancing their capacity to monitor stray animals, safeguard lines and property and promote goodwill within the community.
During the discussions, participants agreed on a mutual commitment — the local community would support rhino conservation and sanctuary preservation, while sanctuary authorities would work to ensure the safety and well-being of the villagers.
Speaking at the event, Range Officer Pranjal Baruah stressed on 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.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its highest density rhino population on the earth, is considered a beacon of successful rhino conservation that has been possible because of the unwavering efforts of the local communities who share their resources and spaces with rhinos.
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