Assam Holds Nearly 80% of the World’s Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros Population
Why in News?
Assam is home to an estimated 3,260 greater one-horned rhinoceroses as of September 2026. This represents nearly 80% of the global population, estimated at 4,075 animals. India has approximately 3,323 greater one-horned rhinoceroses, while Nepal has around 752. The latest figures highlight Assam’s importance in the global conservation of the Indian rhinoceros.
Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros
The greater one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is also known as the Indian rhinoceros. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and is primarily found in India and Nepal. The species is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. In India, it receives legal protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Its natural habitat includes alluvial grasslands, wetlands, and riverine forests. The greater one-horned rhinoceros is recognised by its single horn and thick, folded skin, which gives it an armour-like appearance.
Kaziranga National Park: Major Rhino Stronghold
Kaziranga National Park in Assam is the world’s largest stronghold of the greater one-horned rhinoceros. It shelters more than 2,600 rhinos. The 14th Rhino Population Census recorded 2,613 rhinos in Kaziranga, compared with 2,413 in 2018, representing an increase of 200 individuals. Other important rhino habitats in Assam include:
- Manas National Park: Approximately 40–50 rhinos.
- Orang National Park: An important habitat for the species.
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its exceptionally high rhino density.
Kaziranga National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Conservation and Anti-Poaching Efforts
Assam recorded zero known rhino poaching incidents in 2025, marking only the second such year since the 1970s. The state had previously achieved the same milestone in 2022. Improved intelligence gathering, coordinated enforcement, surveillance, and community participation have contributed to wildlife protection efforts. Long-term conservation also requires habitat restoration, grassland management, and protection of wildlife corridors to support the growing rhino population.
Assam Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros Population 2026: Important Facts
- Scientific name: Rhinoceros unicornis
- Common name: Indian rhinoceros
- IUCN status: Vulnerable
- Global population (2026): Approximately 4,075
- Assam population: Approximately 3,260
- Major habitat: Kaziranga National Park
- Protection in India: Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
- Kaziranga status: UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Zero known rhino poaching in Assam: 2025 and 2022
- Other Assam habitats: Manas, Orang, and Pobitora
