Kaziranga National Park, a significant outpost of biodiversity in India’s northeastern state of Assam, has recently embraced new technology for conservation and protection purposes. The park became the first in India to employ satellite phones aiming to strengthen its law enforcement and emergency response measures. This innovative tool promises to enhance operations against poaching and natural calamities such as floods.
Role of Satellite Phones
In a country where the use of satellite phones is restricted to law-enforcing agencies, with public usage being prohibited, Kaziranga takes a revolutionary leap in wildlife conservation. Unlike regular mobile phones, which rely on terrestrial networks, satellite phones establish direct connectivity with satellites orbiting the Earth. This feature enables seamless connection from any location, giving forest personnel an undeniable strategic advantage over poachers.
About Kaziranga National Park
Spanning 42,996 hectares, Kaziranga National Park holds the distinction of being the largest undisturbed representative area in the Brahmaputra Valley floodplain. The park gained national recognition in 1974 when it was declared a National Park. Since 2007, it has been designated as a Tiger Reserve, extending across a total area of 1,030 square kilometers, with a core segment covering 430 square kilometers.
International Acknowledgements
In 1985, Kaziranga earned international accolades when UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. Bird Life International also recognizes it as an Important Bird Area, further testament to its rich biodiversity.
Home to Unique Wildlife
Kaziranga distinguishes itself as a haven for the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos. Holding the second highest population of Rhinos in Assam after Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, this park has become an essential locus for rhino conservation efforts. Besides rhinos, much of Kaziranga’s conservation focus revolves around the ‘big four’ species— Rhino, Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, and Asiatic water buffalo. The 2018 census reported the presence of 2,413 rhinos and approximately 1,100 elephants within the park.
High Tiger Population
A 2014 tiger census painted an impressive picture of Kaziranga’s considerable tiger population, revealing an estimated 103 tigers. This figure positions Kaziranga as India’s third highest tiger-habitated area, preceded by Uttarakhand’s Jim Corbett National Park (215 tigers) and Karnataka’s Bandipur National Park (120 tigers).
A Home to Primates and Avian Diversity
With almost two-thirds of the Indian subcontinent’s primate species found within its boundaries, Kaziranga showcases a diverse spectrum of primate life. Out of the 14 primate species reported in India, nine can be found here. Moreover, the park comprises more than 250 seasonal water bodies and hosts the Diphlu River, adding to the richness of its biodiversity.
Other National Parks in Assam
In addition to Kaziranga, Assam is home to various other national parks including Manas National Park, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Nameri National Park, Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park, Dehing Patkai National Park, and Raimona National Park. Each of these contributes uniquely to Assam’s rich natural heritage.