Seven endangered golden langurs rescued from wildlife traffickers in Chirang district were released into Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park on 25 June 2026 after veterinary treatment and monitored rehabilitation.
The Rescue and Release
- Rescue dates: Eight langurs recovered from traffickers on 19–20 June 2026; one animal died despite care.
- Enforcement: Assam Police Special Task Force and Chirang district police conducted the operation and arrested suspected traffickers.
- Rehabilitation: Survivors underwent clinical treatment and behavioural monitoring by wildlife veterinarians before release.
- Release: Seven individuals released into Sikhna Jwhwlao NP on 25 June 2026.
Species Profile — Golden Langur
- Scientific name: Trachypithecus geei.
- Distribution: Narrow Indo-Bhutan corridor in western Assam and southern Bhutan; range ~30,000 sq. km bounded by the Brahmaputra and Bhutan mountains.
- Protection status: Listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972; regarded among the world’s most endangered primates.
Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park & Linkages
- Area & location: 316 sq. km across Chirang and Kokrajhar districts in the Bodoland Territorial Region.
- Ecological link: Part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve; contiguous habitat network includes Manas NP, Raimona NP, Chakrashila WS, Kakoijana RF.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- WPA reference: Schedule I confers highest legal protection and strict penalties under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Manas Biosphere: Manas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides core habitat for golden langur metapopulations.