24 rhinos fell prey to poachers in Assam

NEW DELHI: At least 24 rhinoceros fell prey to poachers in the past two years in Kaziranga national park and adjacent areas in Assam, the Lok Sabha was informed today.

In reply to a question, Environment minister S Regupathy said, "Eighteen and six rhinos were killed by poachers in 2007 and 2008 respectively in Kaziranga national park and adjacent areas in Assam."

Lucrative price for rhino horns in international markets is the main motive behind the poaching of rhinos, the minister said.

To protect the endangered species as well other animals in the habitat, state government has submitted a Rs 16 crore annual plan under the Centrally sponsored scheme "Project Tiger."

"Based on this proposal, the Central government has approved Rs 4.57 crore to Kaziranga tiger reserve of which Rs 1.50 crore has already been released," Reghupathy added.

Regarding the other steps to protect wildlife in the country, the minister said, various schemes and Acts have been enacted for keeping a check on poaching and anti-wildlife activities of the poachers.