Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of positioning India as a global leader in wildlife conservation is driving significant national initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species, restoring habitats, and providing essential on-ground support for environmental efforts. In alignment with this commitment, Cairn Oil & Gas is reinforcing its dedication to endangered species protection, particularly focusing on Assam’s Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its vital biodiversity.
Kaziranga is home to 80 percent of the world’s population of the greater one-horned rhino, making it a landmark of conservation success. Since the 1980s, Assam has seen a remarkable 170 percent increase in its rhino population, growing from approximately 1,500 to over 4,000. The park alone houses more than 2,613 rhinos, solidifying its role as a cornerstone in India’s conservation efforts. Covering 1,302 square kilometers, Kaziranga also supports the largest population of Asiatic Water Buffalo in the country, over 1,228 Asiatic Elephants, Bengal Tigers, Eastern Swamp Deer, and various other endangered species.
To bolster conservation within this rich habitat, Cairn, through The Animal Care Organization (TACO)—the flagship initiative of the Anil Agarwal Foundation—has established a partnership with Kaziranga authorities to enhance frontline conservation efforts. Under a Memorandum of Understanding signed in August 2024, Cairn pledged Rs 6 crore over three years to create a dedicated surveillance center and build multi-storey residential units for forest protection staff in Bokakhat. These initiatives are aimed at improving species monitoring, minimizing poaching risks, and supporting the critical work of field personnel who protect species like the greater one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, and Asiatic elephant. Cairn believes that successful conservation begins with empowering those directly involved in safeguarding these animals.
Cairn Oil & Gas is also expanding its endangered species protection initiatives beyond Assam. In the Thar region of Rajasthan, the company supports the revival of native species such as the khejari and the endangered guggal plant, while developing infrastructure for wildlife preservation. Similar conservation efforts are underway in Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, where Cairn collaborates with local authorities to protect threatened species and foster grassroots conservation.
Cairn Oil & Gas is committed to integrating endangered species protection within its core operations. By partnering with forest departments, conservation organizations, and local communities, the company is contributing to India’s long-term goal of ensuring a safer future for its vulnerable wildlife.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/cairn-oil-gas-reaffirms-conservation-efforts-in-kaziranga-on-national-endangered-species-day-1214252-2025-05-15?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-05-15 23:52:00
