World Rhino Day (WRD) was celebrated at the Ultapani Forest Range of Sikhna
Jwhwlao National Park, with a focus on strengthening wildlife conservation, frontline protection, and
collaborative efforts among the Forest Department, local communities, and conservation organisations.
The programme was attended by P.K. Bhuyan, Divisional Forest Officer, Haltugaon Forest Division; Dr.
Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Secretary General and Executive Director, Aaranyak; Mintu Boro, Forest Range
Officer, Ultapani Forest Range; and Rajib Narzary, President, Evergreen Charitable Trust, along with
frontline forest personnel.
During the programme, the discussions focused on the current status of conservation and protection efforts
in Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park (SJNP) and ways to further strengthen these efforts.
The participants highlighted the importance of regular training and capacity building, improved field
logistics, and enhanced coordination among the Forest Department, communities, and non-governmental
organisations.
The need to bring together the expertise, experience, and available resources of different stakeholders to
support effective forest and wildlife protection was also emphasised.
As part of the World Rhino Day programme, Aaranyak provided essential field gear to frontline forest
personnel of the Ultapani Forest Range. The equipment included field shoes, rain gear, and rechargeable
ranger torches.
The initiative is aimed at improving the safety, mobility, comfort, and preparedness of frontline personnel
who work in challenging terrain and weather conditions while undertaking patrolling, habitat monitoring,
prevention of illegal activities, and other wildlife protection duties.
The programme seeks to strengthen field preparedness and operational capacity, thereby supporting
effective forest and wildlife protection in and around the national park.
The programme was coordinated by the Aaranyak team comprising Binita Baruwati, Wasima Begum, Bijeet
Baro, Mizing Boro, and Dhananjoy Mashahary, who worked closely with the stakeholders to ensure the
successful organisation of the event.
World Rhino Day observed at Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park
