Manas National Park

  The Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros (GOH), a majestic megaherbivore also known as the Indian Rhinoceros ( Rhinoceros unicornis Linnaeus, 1758), stands at a critical juncture in its conservation journey. As of June 2022, the global wild population of GOH is 4023, with a significant 81.3% (3271) finding refuge in the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of India. In West Bengal, which holds the second-largest population of GOH in India and contributes 9% to the global population. These population are concentrated in two key North Bengal National Parks: Jaldapara National Park  and Garumora National Park. The historical record of the rhinoceros’ population in this region represents a complex narrative. Initially, traditional conservation efforts led to a significant resurgence in the rhino population. However, despite the positive shift from a minimal population to a handful of rhinos in two protected areas, the rhino population may attain stagnation due to factors such a...

  In childhood, footwear was rarely a necessity except for school visits. For most of the year, we abandoned our chappals and shoes, especially in winter, preferring the natural touch of bare feet on the ground. Walking barefoot connected us to the soil, revealing its temperature, texture, and the terrain's unique challenges. We learned to stride confidently on hard and slippery surfaces and navigate loose soil without sinking into mud or water. Walking barefoot also taught us to adapt to thorny trails. In summer, when trees shed their fine, sharp thorns, we developed techniques to tread lightly, avoiding injury. It seemed like a mix of practice and understanding the thorn's thickness, allowing us to balance the pressure of our steps to minimize harm.

In the heart of the Manas National Park landscape, a unique kind of lesson is taking place. It doesn't involve textbooks or whiteboards, but rather masks of tigers, elephants, and—most importantly—the majestic Greater One-horned Rhinoceros. Through Aaranyak’s "Rhino Goes to School" initiative, we are witnessing a powerful transformation in the fringe communities of Assam. Conservation is often discussed in high-level policy meetings, but its true success is decided on the ground, in the hearts of the children who live alongside these incredible creatures. Why this matters: By engaging students through creative play and wildlife awareness, we are bridging the gap between local communities and the forest department. These children aren't just students; they are the future rangers, biologists, and advocates for Manas. Seeing the excitement on their faces as they "become" the wildlife they see in their backyards is a reminder that hope for our planet starts wi...

                                                           Morning Catch with delight  Morning Catch with Delight As the first golden light of dawn kissed the still waters, a darter moved with silent precision — a flash of feathers, a swift plunge, and victory. Clutching its wriggling catch proudly, the bird embodied the pure joy of the morning. Nature's finest moment, perfectly captured in a single breath. There is something profoundly magical about the world just after sunrise. The air is still cool, the mist hangs low over the water, and the wetlands slowly come alive with the sounds and sights of nature waking up. It is in these quiet, golden moments that a patient observer is rewarded with scenes of breathtaking beauty and this photograph captures one such perfect moment. In this image, we witness a darter the Oriental Darter ( ...

Each year, thousands of migratory birds cross oceans, mountains, and continents—guided by instinct, stars, and changing seasons. Their journeys connect ecosystems and cultures, reminding us that conservation knows no borders. This World Migratory Bird Day, the global theme—“ Protect  Insects, Protect ”Birds”—underscores  the intricate link between healthy ecosystems and avian survival. The loss of insects, wetlands, and stopover habitats threatens their incredible voyages. In Assam and across India’s northeastern landscapes, wetlands, floodplains play a crucial role as resting and feeding grounds. Protecting these habitats ensures that these winged travelers continue their age-old journeys. Let’s commit to small actions — from preserving local wetlands and reducing pesticide use to supporting conservation efforts — that help keep our skies alive with the music of migration. Because when birds thrive, the planet breathes better.  #WorldMigratoryBirdDay #BirdConservation #A...

For me, Zubeen Garg was not just a singer—he was the heartbeat of an entire generation. After the golden touch of Jitul Sonowal, it was Zubeen who brought to us the real essence of modern Assamese music blended with western rhythms. His voice, his compositions, and his melodies became the soundtrack of our youth. I still remember my student days vividly. Traveling in night buses from Guwahati to Dhemaji, we would halt at midnight in Nagaon, Amoni. The roadside restaurants and tea stalls would always be alive with Zubeen’s evergreen hits— Barasha Jetia Name Bokote , Maya Mathu Maya , Gane Ki Ane , and countless others. Those nights, under the dim lights and the misty air, his music filled our hearts with love, romance, and a sense of belonging. As a guitarist, I spent endless evenings with my college friends converting Zubeen’s songs into chords and notations. We sang them at freshers’ and farewell parties, hostel music sessions, birthdays, and informal gatherings. His music traveled ...

Rhinos are symbols of resilience, yet they remain among the most vulnerable species on our planet. Recent conservation successes across the world—from population recovery of the Greater One-Horned Rhino in India and Nepal, to strengthened protection for White Rhinos in Africa, and intensified global collaboration for the critically endangered Javan and Sumatran Rhinos—show what is possible when science, communities, and political will come together. As we celebrate today, let us remember that every rhino saved safeguards biodiversity, strengthens ecosystems, and inspires hope for future generations. Together, we can keep the five species of rhinos thriving in the wild.