Home / Environment / Elephants Return, Pygmy Hogs Thrive in Assam's Green Revival
Elephants Return, Pygmy Hogs Thrive in Assam's Green Revival
27 Sep
Summary
- Elephants have returned to Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary after years.
- Pygmy hog population increased from six to 194.
- Prime Minister Modi highlighted Assam's conservation success.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently lauded Assam's significant strides in wildlife conservation during the 138th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat'. He highlighted the triumphant return of elephants to the Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in Sonitpur district. Forest land encroachment had previously displaced these animals, but successful clearing of encroachments over the past three years has facilitated their return to areas unseen for years.
Furthermore, Modi spotlighted the inspiring recovery of Assam's pygmy hog population. This conservation program, initiated with only six animals, has seen the population flourish to 194. The pygmy hog, a rare and small wild pig, depends on undisturbed grasslands. Efforts have focused on captive breeding, reintroduction, and grassland habitat restoration, significantly boosting their numbers.
The Assam government has set an ambitious target to increase the pygmy hog population to 300 by 2040. Officials expressed their commitment to continuing conservation efforts, including reclaiming encroached lands and protecting all species. These successes demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental protection and ecosystem health.
