With reference to the Indian rhinoceros, consider the following statem...
Indian Rhinoceros and their Conservation Status
Indian rhinoceros, also known as the greater one-horned rhinoceros, is a species of rhinoceros native to the Indian subcontinent. Let's discuss the given statements:
Statement 1: It is listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List.
- The Indian rhinoceros is indeed listed as "vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, not "critically endangered".
- According to the IUCN Red List, the population of Indian rhinos is increasing, thanks to conservation efforts. However, the species still faces several threats, including poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.
Statement 2: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam has the highest density of Indian rhinos in the world.
- This statement is correct. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Indian state of Assam, has the highest density of Indian rhinoceros in the world.
- As per the latest census conducted in 2020, Pobitora has 102 rhinos in an area of just 38.8 sq km, which means an approximate density of 2.63 rhinos per sq km.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B, i.e., statement 2 only.
With reference to the Indian rhinoceros, consider the following statem...
With the BJP frequently invoking Assam’s world-famous one-horned rhino to connect with the people of the state, the animal has now become a part of poll rhetoric, with promises to save “the pride of Assam”.
- The projection of rhino as the pride of Assam began during the Assam Movement (1979-85).
- Rhino started emerging as a player in the political narrative of Assam as “its poaching was linked to the control of indigenous people over land, resources and influx of immigrants”.
- According to the rhino census of 2018, there are 2,413 rhinos in Kaziranga alone.
- It is common for every party contesting in Bokakhat and Kaliabor, the two constituencies that cover most of Kaziranga (the park spreads over six constituencies), to say that they will protect the rhino.
- The Indian rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) is also called the Indian rhino, greater one-horned rhinoceros or great Indian rhinoceros.
- It is a rhinoceros species native to the Indian subcontinent.
- It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam has the highest density of Indian rhinos in the world.
Hence only statement 2 is correct.
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