In News:

The Assam government has achieved major success in protecting the greater one-horned rhinoceros through Operation Falcon, a joint initiative of the Assam Police and Forest Department launched in 2024. The operation was initiated after the killing of two rhinos prompted a shift in anti-poaching strategy.

Key Outcomes

• 42 poachers arrested across districts including Biswanath (18), Darrang (8), Nagaon (6), Karbi Anglong (5), Sonitpur (2), and one each in Udalguri, Dibrugarh, and Cachar.
• Six major poaching gangs with links to illegal trade through Myanmar dismantled.
• Nine poaching attempts foiled using digital and on-ground intelligence.
• Zero rhino killings reported in 2025 so far.

Conservation Impact

• Rhino poaching in Assam has dropped by 86% since 2016, when the BJP came to power.
• Annual data shows steady decline: one rhino killed in 2021, none in 2022, one in 2023, two in 2024, and none so far in 2025.
• Enhanced coordination, intelligence-driven operations, and rapid response mechanisms have been key factors.

About Assam’s Rhinos (Census 2022)

• Total Rhinos: 2,895 in Assam.
• Distribution:
  • Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve – 2,613 (largest habitat, ~1,300 sq km).
  • Orang National Park & Tiger Reserve – 125.
  • Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – 107.
  • Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve – 50.

Significance of Operation Falcon

• Biodiversity Protection: Safeguards the greater one-horned rhino, listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
• International Recognition: Strengthens India’s image in global wildlife conservation.
• Eco-Tourism Boost: Ensures safety in parks like Kaziranga, enhancing Assam’s tourism appeal.