Patna: On the occasion of World Rhino Day 2025, the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna Zoo) proudly announced a major milestone: it now ranks second in the world in rhino conservation and breeding, after San Diego Zoo, USA. With 10 rhinos in its care, Patna Zoo also holds the top position in India in terms of rhino population and successful conservation efforts.
A special program was held at the zoo on Monday to mark the occasion and highlight the zoo’s critical role in preserving one of the world’s most endangered species – the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros.
Rhinos: The Pride of Bihar and India
The event began with Anand Kishore, Principal Secretary of the Department, visiting the rhino enclosures along with senior forest officials. During his tour, he praised the zoo’s dedicated conservation work and called rhinos the “pride of Bihar and the nation.”
He emphasized that conserving rhinos is not just a matter of environmental importance, but also crucial for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.
“Our zoo ranks second globally in rhino conservation. This is a proud moment for Bihar and for India,” he remarked.
Student Engagement and Awareness Initiatives
A seminar on rhino conservation was also held, with active participation from students of BN College, Patna Women’s College, and JD Women’s College. Zoology experts provided in-depth knowledge about rhino species, behavior, threats they face, and ongoing conservation strategies.
Students interacted in a lively Q&A session, discussing how youth can contribute to wildlife preservation and the importance of maintaining ecological balance.
Inside the Rhino Enclosure: Meet the 10 Rhinos
Patna Zoo currently houses 10 rhinos, including six males and four females –
- Male Rhinos: Prince, Ganesh, Yuvraj, Shakti, Shaktiraj, Jumbo
- Female Rhinos: Ghutangi, Gauri, Gudiya, Rani
The zoo has also actively participated in wildlife exchange programs, sending 11 rhinos to other Indian zoos and receiving animals of high biodiversity value in return.
Zoo’s Breeding Success and National Impact
Patna Zoo’s Rhino Conservation and Breeding Centre was established to replicate natural habitats and promote reproduction in captivity. The zoo has emerged as one of Asia’s most successful institutions in terms of rhino conservation, and its expertise is being recognized across India.
Zoo Director Hemant Patil, and Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer and senior officials shared insights on how strategic habitat design, medical care, and environmental enrichment have contributed to their success.
A Call for Conservation and Moral Support
Concluding the event, Anand Kishore urged the public to support biodiversity and environmental conservation.
“We must maintain our love for nature and contribute morally and actively to the conservation of species around us,” he said. “Together, we can make this Earth a greener and better place.”
Key Officials Present
Senior forest and wildlife officials in attendance included –
- P.K. Gupta – Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HOF)
- Arvinder Singh – PCCF (Development)
- S. Chandrashekhar – Chief Conservator of Forests (IT)
- S. Kumarasamy – CCF (Joint Forest Management)
- Hemant Patil – Director, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park
