Under a wildlife exchange pact signed in January 2026, which state will send one-horned rhinos and water buffaloes to Madhya Pradesh?
- AOption (a)
West Bengal
- BOption (b)
Assam
- COption (c)
Odisha
- DOption (d)
Bihar
View answer & explanationHide answer & explanation
Correct answer
Assam
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Assam.
Key Points
- Assam is home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros and is known for its rich biodiversity, especially in protected areas such as Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park.
- The wildlife exchange pact signed in January 2026 aims to promote conservation efforts and enhance the genetic diversity of species in Madhya Pradesh.
- One-horned rhinos and water buffaloes are flagship species of Assam, with the state taking significant steps for their conservation through anti-poaching measures and habitat protection.
- The translocation of these species to Madhya Pradesh aligns with India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the reintroduction of species to suitable habitats.
- This move is part of a broader effort to restore ecosystems and promote the growth of endangered species in regions where they were historically found.
Additional Information
- One-horned rhinoceros:
- The Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), also known as the one-horned rhinoceros, is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
- India is home to more than 2,600 one-horned rhinos, with Assam’s Kaziranga National Park hosting the majority of the population.
- These rhinos were once widely distributed across the northern Indian subcontinent but are now restricted to a few protected areas.
- They are herbivores, feeding on grasses, leaves, and aquatic plants, and play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem of their habitats.
- Water buffalo:
- The wild water buffalo (Bubalus arnee) is also classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with a significant population in Assam.
- They are known for their importance in agriculture as well as their ability to survive in swampy and grassland areas.
- Assam’s Manas National Park is a critical habitat for wild water buffaloes, ensuring their protection and survival.
- Conservation in Assam:
- Assam has several protected areas, including Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, and Orang National Park, which are essential for the conservation of one-horned rhinos, water buffaloes, and other species.
- Anti-poaching measures, eco-tourism, and community involvement have been instrumental in protecting wildlife in the region.
- Madhya Pradesh’s biodiversity:
- Madhya Pradesh is often referred to as the “Tiger State” of India, with a large number of tiger reserves such as Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Pench.
- It has a wide variety of flora and fauna, and the introduction of rhinos and water buffaloes will further enhance the state’s biodiversity.
- This initiative will support the development of new ecosystems, ensuring balance and sustainability.
- Wildlife translocation projects in India:
- India has successfully conducted wildlife translocation projects in the past, such as the reintroduction of tigers in Panna National Park and cheetahs in Kuno National Park.
- These efforts are part of India’s broader wildlife conservation strategy to ensure the survival of endangered species and restore ecological balance.