Govt to set up rhino task force in Assam

GUWAHATI: Union environment minister Prakash Javadekar announced the setting up of a special rhino protection force for Assam to protect the endangered species. Rhino poaching had snowballed into a major political issue during the Lok Sabha polls.

Narendra Modi termed the spurt in poaching as an attempt by the Congress-led government to settle “Bangladeshis” in protected areas.

“We will have zero tolerance for rhino poaching. A special rhino protection force will be created which will recruit local youths,” said Javadekar who was on a two-day visit to Assam. At least 22 rhinos had been killed this year, while 24 poachers were arrested.