New Delhi, September 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that wildlife conservation initiatives in Assam have helped elephants return to Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary and revived the population of the endangered pygmy hog. He made the remarks during the 138th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat.
Modi said protecting the environment is not limited to safeguarding trees, plants and wildlife; it also strengthens the ecosystems that sustain life. “When we protect the environment, we are not only protecting trees, plants, and wildlife. We are also strengthening the entire ecosystem that sustains life,” he said, adding that conservation initiatives across the country are demonstrating the value of this approach.
At Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, elephants had moved away as human encroachment increased. According to Modi, the forest land was cleared of encroachments three years ago, leading to a remarkable recovery. Elephant herds have since returned to areas where they had not been seen for years.
The Prime Minister also highlighted a separate Assam conservation programme focused on the pygmy hog, one of the world’s smallest and rarest wild pigs. The programme began with six animals, which were resettled in the forest, while the grasslands they depend on were restored and improved. Modi said the pygmy hog population has since grown to more than 190.
He said the Assam examples show how sustained conservation efforts can restore ecosystems and help threatened species return to habitats where they once flourished.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/from-elephants-to-pygmy-hogs-pm-hails-assam-conservation-in-mann-ki-baat-1618612
Category: Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2026-09-27 14:34:00
