Majuli's Rising Wildlife Conflict Threatens Rhino Conservation

Rising concern over human-wildlife conflict situation in Majuli river island in Assam: Study

ANI March 6, 2025 138 views

A recent study by Aaranyak has uncovered significant challenges in Majuli's delicate ecosystem, where wildlife increasingly encroaches on human settlements. The research highlights the complex interactions between local communities and animals like rhinos, elephants, and wild boars that damage crops and livestock. Despite these challenges, the study also reveals Majuli's remarkable biodiversity, including vibrant migratory bird populations. Researchers emphasize the urgent need for sustainable conflict mitigation strategies that protect both wildlife and human livelihoods.

"Conservation actions must be specifically tailored to address the region's challenges" - Aaranyak Research Team

Guwahati, March 5: A biodiversity conservation organisation, Aaranyak, has revealed a concerning increase in human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in the Majuli River Island district of Assam compared to previous years. Rhinos, wild buffaloes, wild boars, elephants, and even tigers frequently damage crops and livestock in the areas covered under the study, said the organisation.

Key Points

90% of local population dependent on agriculture threatened by wildlife

Rhinos and elephants frequently damage crops and livestock

Majuli wetlands host diverse migratory bird populations

Comprehensive survey engaged over 110 households and local stakeholders

The six-day survey's primary objective was to explore ways to secure the growing population of one-horned rhinos that have strayed onto the river island from Kaziranga National Park.

The study engaged more than 110 households, local communities, Satradhikars (head priests of Vaishnavite monasteries), forest officials and law enforcement agencies to assess the escalating challenges of human-wildlife conflict in the area, said Aaranyak.

The initial three days of the survey concentrated on Namoni Majuli, encompassing areas such as Sesuguri, Lobak Khutar, and Ahotoguri Island. The subsequent phase extended to Ujoni Majuli, covering the area from Kamalabari Ghat to Gejera.

This survey was conducted by Researchers Ujjal Bayan and Kakali Baishya of the Rhino Research and Conservation Division (RRCD) of Aaranyak.

Given that nearly 90% of the local population relies on agriculture, these conflicts pose substantial threats to community livelihoods.

"During the survey, our researchers from RRCD also met Range Officer Abhijit Dolley and Additional Superintendent of Police Bitul Chetia and discussed various aspects of human and wildlife behaviour," Aaranyak said.

Besides these challenges, the survey also identified a positive trend -- Majuli's wetlands are currently flourishing with migratory birds. Glossy ibis, black-headed ibis, Indian spot-billed ducks, Greylag geese, bar-headed geese, purple swamp hens, and other avian species have arrived this winter for roosting, breeding and feeding. These observations highlight Majuli's ecological significance as a unique river island with rich biodiversity.

In light of Majuli's distinct geographic and ecological characteristics, conservation actions and management plans must be specifically tailored to address the region's challenges.

Aaranyak emphasises the necessity for sustainable human-wildlife conflict mitigation strategies, enhanced community awareness, and conservation-oriented policy interventions to safeguard both the livelihoods of residents and the island's rich biodiversity.

Tags:

Human-Wildlife Conflict Majuli Island Assam Biodiversity Rhino Conservation Aaranyak Wildlife Management