CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Efforts are underway in Assam to conduct a genetic study of rhino horn fragments collected from thousands of horns destroyed in a public event in 2021. A team of specialists recently sorted and securely repackaged 2,573 horn samples at Kaziranga National Park, which were then sent to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun. This initiative is part of the RhoDIS India programme, aimed at enhancing rhino conservation and supporting forensic investigations.
Context: Destruction Of Rhino Horns In 2021
In a historic conservation move in September 2021, the Assam Forest Department destroyed 2,479 confiscated rhino horns to send a strong message against poaching and illegal trade. Horns of legal importance or scientific value were retained for further use. Prior to incineration, tiny samples were carefully extracted from the horns for future DNA analysis.
Sample Authentication And Packaging Process
From July 3 to 8, 2025, forest authorities undertook the task of verifying and sorting the horn samples stored at Kaziranga. The samples were sealed into small vials under strict protocols. The entire process was closely supervised by independent experts to ensure integrity, accountability, and transparency.
Role Of Wildlife Institute Of India And RhoDIS Programme
The repackaged samples have been forwarded to WII’s genetics lab, which is spearheading the Rhino DNA Index System (RhoDIS) India. This initiative involves creating a comprehensive DNA database of Indian rhinos. The profiles will assist in tracking rhino lineages, monitoring population health, and identifying individuals involved in poaching-related cases.
Goals Of DNA Study
The genetic analysis will focus on identifying short tandem repeat (STR) allele frequencies, which are indicators of genetic diversity. This data will help assess the genetic health of Assam’s rhino population and detect possible changes due to environmental or anthropogenic pressures. The insights will guide informed conservation strategies and habitat management.
Collaborative Efforts And Monitoring
Launched in 2016, RhoDIS India is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), rhino-range states, WWF-India, and WII. A dedicated committee consisting of forest officers, scientists, NGO members, and independent observers monitors all aspects of the programme. The database also plays a crucial role in wildlife crime investigation through genetic forensics.
Importance For Rhino Protection In India
This genetic documentation effort represents a major advancement in scientific rhino management. It enables wildlife authorities to keep track of individual rhinos, supports anti-poaching operations, and contributes to legal proceedings through DNA evidence. Ultimately, it reinforces India’s long-term commitment to preserving its rhino populations and fighting the illegal wildlife trade.
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