Inspiring Guardians: WATCH Assam’s Bold ‘Van Durgas’ Protect Kaziranga National Park with Unwavering Resolve

Female Rangers Known as ‘Van Durga’ Protect Kaziranga National Park’s Biodiversity

GUWAHATI: The female frontline forest staff, aptly named ‘Van Durga,’ play a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These women have been pivotal in combating poaching, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, and participating in eco-development initiatives.

Trained to handle the unique challenges of safeguarding the park’s rich biodiversity, the Van Durgas often tackle difficult assignments, such as conducting night patrols. "We do everything we can to protect the park," said Monisha Das, a team member, in an interview with G Plus. "We even work late-night shifts."

Monisha, who has been with the team for just a year, emphasized the steep learning curve and the bravery required for the job. "Sometimes, we have to patrol alongside mother rhinos and their calves. On some occasions, the rhinos charge at us, which forces us to fire blank rounds in the air for safety. We were initially scared, but now we know we have to be brave to protect the animals and people."

The presence of the Van Durgas marks a significant step forward for gender inclusion in the conservation sector. Their dedicated efforts demonstrate that women are equally capable of taking on frontline roles in wildlife conservation. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kaziranga and commended the all-women team for their heroic efforts in preserving the park.

Meanwhile, Assam continues its ‘War on Drugs’ campaign, showcasing the state’s relentless initiatives with over 4,700 recorded cases earlier this year.

Original Story https://www.guwahatiplus.com/assam/watch-assams-van-durgas-to-the-fore-in-protecting-kaziranga-national-park
Category : Assam
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