Uttar Pradesh: Forest and Wildlife Department launches plan to preserve natural habitats of rhinos and other endangered wildlife species

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The Forest and Wildlife Department of Uttar Pradesh has launched an ambitious plan to preserve the natural habitats of rhinos and other endangered wildlife species.

Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], July 13 (HBTV): Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Forest and Wildlife Department of Uttar Pradesh has launched an ambitious plan to preserve the natural habitats of rhinos and other endangered wildlife species, according to an official release.

As part of the initiative, two new Rhino Rehabilitation Centres (RRCs) will be developed in Dudhwa National Park, located in Lakhimpur. A total of INR 1.5 crore has been allocated for the project. The funds will be used for habitat conservation, staff training, procurement of medicines and equipment, and community awareness programmes focused on wildlife protection.

The department has also launched a comprehensive conservation project in the Terai region with the aim of ensuring long-term preservation of natural habitats for rhinos and other threatened species. This project will be implemented specifically in Dudhwa National Park.

According to Rangaraju, Deputy Director of Dudhwa National Park, INR 1.5 crore has been sanctioned for the creation of two new natural enclosures—RRC-3 and RRC-4—within the park for the protection of rhinos and other endangered wildlife. These will follow the model of previously established centres, RRC-1 and RRC-2.

The new rehabilitation centres will provide open forest space under special monitoring to help rhinos thrive in a natural environment while maintaining instinctive behaviours. The centres will also support conservation efforts for other endangered species native to the region.

Rangaraju said that out of the sanctioned funds, INR 1.27 crore will be used to maintain the rhinos’ natural habitat, including upkeep of water bodies, vegetation, and the surrounding area. Approximately INR 7 lakh has been earmarked for medicines and chemicals for wildlife, INR 4.8 lakh for major construction activities, and INR 3 lakh for minor infrastructure development. An additional INR 7 lakh will be allocated for monitoring equipment and related installations.

The project will also strengthen anti-poaching surveillance and efforts to curb the illegal trade of rhino body parts. To achieve this, training programmes will be held to engage and educate local communities on wildlife conservation.

The initiative by the Yogi Adityanath government is expected to not only boost the rhino population in Uttar Pradesh but also enhance the overall biodiversity of the Dudhwa region.

(ANI)