Assam CM hails Modi’s visit to Kaziranga, but is it a global wildlife circuit debut?

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for visiting Kaziranga National Park. Sarma said the visit would solidify Assam’s position in the global wildlife tourism circuit.

However, some experts questioned whether the visit itself elevates Assam’s profile. Kaziranga National Park, famed for its one-horned rhinoceros population, already enjoys international recognition. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site in 1985.

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Additionally, Birdlife International recognizes Kaziranga as an Important Bird Area for its avian species conservation efforts.

Given this existing recognition, some wonder if the Chief Minister’s statement about the park needing a boost in global standing holds entirely true.

Thank you Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji for visiting Kaziranga and experiencing its unique beauty. This has firmly put Assam in the global wildlife circuit and will help us reach out to millions of nature enthusiasts who want to visit our beautiful State. https://t.co/UksgXUKecO

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— Himanta Biswa Sarma (Modi Ka Parivar) (@himantabiswa) March 9, 2024

“Is CM unaware of Kaziranga’s existing recognition? Or he intended to highlight the potential for a renewed focus on the park,” said a social media user.

“While Kaziranga National Park was already on the global wildlife map, Prime Minister Modi’s visit has the potential to heighten its profile and attract more visitors to Assam,” said a wildlife activist requesting anonymity.