Lucknow: In a major move to enhance wildlife tourism in Uttar Pradesh, the state government has decided to spotlight the one-horned rhinoceros alongside the Bengal tiger, India’s national animal. This initiative will particularly focus on Dudhwa National Park, where the rhino population has shown remarkable growth under Project Rhino.
Rhinos Join Tigers as Key Wildlife Attractions
The Eco-Tourism Development Board of Uttar Pradesh has launched a campaign featuring rhinos prominently in promotional materials for Dudhwa National Park. Photos and videos of rhinos will be displayed at airports, railway stations, and bus terminals across the state to attract more tourists. This decision marks a shift in wildlife tourism strategy, positioning rhinos as a major draw alongside the already popular Bengal tigers.
Project Rhino’s Success: From 5 to 51 Rhinos in 41 Years
Project Rhino, initiated in 1984, has been instrumental in growing the rhino population in Dudhwa National Park. The project began by relocating five rhinos from Kaziranga National Park in Assam to Dudhwa. Today, after 41 years of conservation efforts, the rhino herd has grown to 51 animals.
Most notably, all rhinos in Dudhwa are one-horned, adding to the park’s unique appeal. Tourists visiting the park may not always spot tigers, but groups of rhinos frolicking in their natural habitat have become a reliable highlight of the visit.
Tourism Infrastructure and Nature Guide Training
The Tourism Board is also working to develop Sharda Barrage and Chandan Chowki into prominent wellness and recreation destinations. Plans are underway to establish resorts, wellness centers, and other tourist-friendly amenities to complement the wildlife attractions.
Additionally, nature guides working in Dudhwa have been trained to narrate the history and story of the rhinos to visitors. This effort aims to enhance tourist experience and awareness during the upcoming tourist season starting in November.
Upcoming Releases and Official Statements
Dr HS Raja Mohan, a 2001 batch Indian Forest Officer (IFS) officer and Field Director of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, announced that 10 rhinos will be released for free roaming in the new tourist season, an increase from the current four rhinos already enjoying free movement within the reserve.
Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted that the state is actively promoting wildlife tourism and sees the rhino as a significant new attraction alongside the tiger. Tourism Director Prakhar Mishra, an IFS officer, echoed this sentiment, stating that the promotion of rhinos is part of a larger strategy to attract diverse groups of tourists.
About Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa National Park is a prominent protected area and a jewel of the Terai belt in northern Uttar Pradesh, India. It is part of the larger Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, which also includes the Kishanpur and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuaries. Known for its remarkable biodiversity, the park is home to endangered species and unique ecosystems like grasslands and wet marshes.
About World Rhinos Day
World Rhino Day, observed annually on September 22, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the conservation of all five rhinoceros species and the urgent threats they face. It unites conservation organizations, governments, zoos, and individuals worldwide to work toward protecting these magnificent animals from extinction.
