Five Asian Range countries resolve to augment rhino protection measures

GUWAHATI:  Recognising the critical situation facing the Asian Rhinos, India, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia and Nepal have resolved to collaborate in strengthening rhino protection measures through coordinated cross-border actions.

The Asian Range countries also agreed to review the population of the three species of Asian rhinos in every four years to reassess the need for joint actions to secure the future of these three rhino species.

In a joint declaration (New Delhi Declaration) after the three-day (Feb 26-28) 2^nd Asian Rhino Range Countries conclave, these countries agreed for coordination in intelligence gathering, real-time sharing of intelligence on rhino cries and its horn trade to secure the rhino population within and among range countries.

Other salient features of the joint declaration include

• To initiate research on various habitat parameters including invasive species threatening the suitable Asian Rhino habitat  and take appropriate steps to optimally manage the habitat
• To explore possibilities of expanding rhino ranges within country or among Asian range countries for optimal population management
• To strengthen transboundary collaboration among India, Bhutan and Nepal for the greater one-horned rhino conservation and protection.
• To identify connectivity and corridors across international boundaries and keep them functional, safe and secure for free movement of Asian rhinos and other wildlife.
• To increase the engagement of the local communities as stewards to secure the future of rhinos in range countries.
• To initiate proactive monitoring on potential adverse impacts of climate change on rhino health and their habitat in range countries.
• To undertake studies on Rhino health issues & potential diseases and take necessary steps for management intervention.
• To regularly organize exposure visits for managers and staff of the rhino range countries and to document the best practices for wider dissemination.
• To collaborate and strengthen wildlife forensics for the purpose of investigation.
• To accelerate natural and conservation breeding of critically endangered Sumatran rhino including best use of all available individuals and technologies
• To call to the attention of all countries that possible opening of international trade of rhino horn and other derivatives will have a severe detrimental impact on rhino populations in Asian rhino range countries.