Khan, M., 1989. Asian Rhinos: an action plan for their conservation. Gland, IUCN, pp. i-iv, 1-23
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| Location: |
Asia - South Asia - India |
| Subject: |
Distribution - Records |
| Species: |
Indian Rhino |
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AsRSG Action Plan, specific recommendations for India.
India: Specific Recommendations
1. Concentrate efforts on areas in which reasonably viable wild populations (> 100 rhinos) in the wild can be established.
In India, these are: Kaziranga, Manas (which overlaps into Bhutan), Dudhwa and Orang (though others might be created through further translocations). In addition, it would be useful to harmonize the population census techniques used in India with the photo-registry technique currently used in Nepal. Exchange visits between rhino researchers and managers in Chitawan and Kaziranga and Manas should be arranged.
The human pressures around the actual and potential rhino reserves in India are extremely severe, and are likely to become worse. For the long-term security of the rhinos, a number of actions are required:
a. maintenance of ongoing anti-poaching measures, and the implementation of such measures for newly established populations (e.g. Dudhwa);
b. public awareness and education programmes around all rhino reserves;
c. an investigation into the possibilities of lacal people deriving economic benefit from rhino conservation in their areas (possibly through tourist revenues).
d. maintenance of wildlife management and protected areas training programmesfor staff at all levels.
2. Calculate resources currently available and those additionally required.
The Indian Government should be encouraged to declare whether additional resources are needed for its rhino recovery programme. If so, these should be specified, and the necessary funds sought.
3. Assess the value to the conservation of the species of the small remnant populations of rhinos (eg. Jaldapara), through better information on current status and cost-benefit analyses of increased protection and management
In particular, investigations are needed of the various small populations in Assam and West Bengal, which will never be viable in themselves, to determine whether these animals might best be used as founder stock for reintroductions elsewhere.
4. Conduct biochemical and genetic studies
5. Continue efforts to establish other wild populations elsewhere in India and Nepal through translocations.
Much deserved credit has been given to the Indian Goverriment for its successful reintroduction of rhinos to Dudhwa National Park. However, with a founder stock of only seven animals, the operation cannot yet be considered complete. To avoid the problems of inbreeding, it would be advisable to move in another 30 animals. Other sites for reintroduction should also be considered.
Reintroductions should be limited to sanctuaries capable of supporting rhino populations in excess of 100 animals. A minimum of 30-40 rhinos should be used to form the foundation of new populations, and follow-up surveillance should be initiated to measure the success of such reintroduction.
6. Investigate alternatives to the porposed railway line bordering Kaziranga.
7. Expand captive population.
8. Continue measures to prevent illegally poached rhino horn from leaving India for markets in eastern Asia.
Continued instances of poaching in India suggest that the government cannot afford to ease off in its attempts to close down the illegal exports of rhino horn from the country.
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Asian Rhinos: an action plan for their conservation
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