World Rhino Day
Suhan Mallick receiving certificate of appreciation for his contribution in spreading awareness about one-horned rhinoceros conservation during the World Rhino Day celebration at Assam State Zoo in Guwahati on September 22, 2018. UB Photos

Along with the rest of the world, the World Rhino Day was also observed in different parts of Assam on Saturday.

The Day was also observed at Assam State Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden in Guwahati with a day-long programme.

The programme at the Assam State Zoo was inaugurated by writer Putu Devi in presence of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Assam, NK Vaasu in presence of other senior officials.

Rhinoceros or rhino is one of the dangerous endangered wild animal species.

It is a well known fact that the one-horned rhino is available only in Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (having the highest Indian rhino density in the world) and Orang National Park of Assam.

On the occasion of the World Rhino Day, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal through his Twitter handle appealed to celebrate the day and pledge to protect and conserve the gentle, giant animal.

Sonowal tweeted: “On World Rhino Day, let us celebrate one of Assam’s most precious resource and pledge to do our best to protect and conserve these gentle giants.”

Meanwhile, the World Rhino Day was also observed at World Heritage Site Kaziranga Nationa Park, which gives shelter to the highest number of one-horned rhinoceros in the world. The programme was organised by the Kaziranga Nationa Park authority in association with wildlife organisations like Aaranyak, Cobett Foundation, Bishwa Prakriti Nidhi.

A rally – Rhino Yatra – was also taken out on the occasion. The rally, started at the Sankardev Sishu Niketan in Bokakhat’s Rajabari, was participated by students, wildlife activists, forest personnel. It was flagged off by Conservator of Forests, Kaziranga, G Ahmed.

The rally was taken out along with a giant statue of rhino.

The observance was also attended by PCCF), Assam, NK Vaasu.

The speakers called for protection of the endangered animal, which always remains target of the poachers.

Assam’s sprint sensation Hima Das, who recently visited the Assam State Zoo, also wished all a Happy World Rhino Day. On her Twitter handle, the ‘Dhing Express’ tweeted: “Happ World Rhino Day. Lets all contribute to protect them.”