On Monday (22nd September), Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the revamped Tripura Sundari temple, which is located in Udaipur town of the State’s Gomati district and known for its divine connection to tortoises and turtles.
Established in 1501 CE by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, it is one of the 51 Hindu Shaktipeetha shrines in India.
The 524-year-old temple is built on the top of a small hill or hillock which resembles the back of a tortoise. This is why the Tripura Sundari temple is also known as Kurma Pitha (Kurma means tortoise).
There is a picturesque, man-made lake by the name of Kalyan Sagar, which is located next to the Shaktipeetha shrine. The serene, clear water is home to rare bostami turtles.
In a short while, PM @narendramodi will inaugurate the development work of ‘Mata Tripura Sundari Temple Complex’ at Matabari under Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) scheme.
Bostami turtles are considered extinct in the wild but are plentiful in the precincts of the Tripura Sundari temple (also called Udaipur Matabari).
They are large in size and often come up to the shore of the freshwater lake. Devotees who visit the Shaktipeetha feed the bostami turtles bread crumbs, biscuits and puffed rice as part of the rituals.
Fishing and taking turtles out of the water body, which is spread over 2.75 acres, is strictly prohibited. Given that Kalyan Sagar is situated next to the Tripura Sundari temple, it is also considered sacred by the devotees.
It highlights the intricate link between faith, heritage and biodiversity. The Kalyan Sagar and the Bostami turtles symbolise a harmonious coexistence of tradition and nature.
According to local beliefs, the sacred reptiles climb the footsteps of the Tripura Sundari temple before their death and embody the blessings of the deity.
The well-being of the Bostami turtles is looked after by the Matabari Temple Committee.
The Tripura State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB) mandates that devotees not carry plastic bags near the lake. It also monitors the water quality of the lake from time to time.
Today, there is a healthy population of Bostami turtles in the lake. These critically endangered reptiles are integral to the spiritual ecosystem of the Tripura Sundari temple.
Hinduism reflects a deep connection between Faith and Nature. The overwhelming presence of the Bostami turtles at the Shaktipeetha and its reverence highlight the essence of spirituality.
In recent years, the BJP-led Tripura government has stepped up efforts to preserve the sacred turtles.
A year-long scientific study has been commissioned by the government in parternship with global conservation organisation, Turtle Survival Alliance.
It aims to conduct a thorough census of the turtle population, assess their health, and devise long-term conservation strategies. Awareness campaigns are being launched among devotees to maintain the sanctity of the Kalyan Sagar.
The Delhi High Court rejected the prayer of far-left ‘activist’ Devangana Kalita to reconstruct the case diaries of the case relating to the anti-Hindu Delhi riots, in which she is an accused. A single bench of Justice Ravinder Dudeja passed the judgment, while also confirming an earlier interim order directing the Delhi Police to preserve the case diaries.
“The petition is partly allowed. As far as the request for preservation is concerned, the interim order is made absolute. For reconstruction of the police diary, the request is rejected,” the Court said.
UAPA accused Kalita had requested the Delhi High Court to direct the Delhi Police to preserve and reconstruct the case diaries, alleging that the police had tampered with them. She had alleged that the Delhi Police ante-dated the witness testimonies in the case diaries relating to the criminal cases filed regarding the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act protests and a road blockade near the Jafrabad metro station in 2020.
She approached the High Court after her plea was rejected by the trial court. The trial court noted that the witness statements were not even a substantive part of the evidence. “While there may be merits in the submissions of the Ld. Counsel for the accused persons, but at this stage, this court cannot go into the truthfulness and veracity of the allegations,” the trial court remarked in its order passed on November 6, 2024.
Devangana Kalita was arrested for inciting communal violence
Kalita, along with UAPA-accused Asif Iqbal Tanha and Natasha Narwal in the 2020 anti-Hindu Delhi riots case, was granted bail in June 2021. Kalita was arrested by the Delhi Police for her role in stoking communal violence during the anti-Hindu riots in North-East Delhi in February 2020 that claimed 53 people and left more than 400 injured. Natasha Narwal and Devangana Kalita are founding members of Pinjra Tod, an organisation accused by some citizens of Seelampur, Jafrabad, and Trans-Yamuna of inciting riots in Delhi.
Pinjra Tod claims to be an autonomous collective of women students fighting for a just, accessible, non-discriminatory University and affordable accommodation and has been involved in numerous protests and campaigns of a far-left nature.
In an attempt to appease Muslims ahead of the assembly elections, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin pledged to protect the rights of Muslims. Stalin made the remarks during a recent event celebrating the 1500th anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad. He announced that his government has included content on the Prophet Muhammad in the school curriculum in the state.
The decision was made by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, acceding to the demand of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) leader Nellai Mubarak’s demand for the inclusion of Prophet Muhammad’s teachings in the school curriculum. “SDPI leader Nellai Mubarak requested to include the Prophet Muhamed in the syllabus. I’m happy to say that it has already been included in the Tamil Nadu Education Syllabus”, said CM Stalin. SDPI is the political wing of the banned Islamic outfit PFI.
நபிகள் நாயகத்தின் 1500-ஆவது பிறந்தநாள் விழாவில் பங்கேற்று, உலகெங்கும் அன்பு பரவிட வேண்டும் – அமைதி நிறைந்திட வேண்டும் என்ற உணர்வை வெளிப்படுத்தினேன்.
சிறுபான்மை மக்களுக்கு இடர் வரும்போதெல்லாம், பாதுகாப்பு அரணாக என்றும் திராவிட முன்னேற்றக் கழகம் துணை நிற்கும்! pic.twitter.com/xJgkHJkQsC
— M.K.Stalin – தமிழ்நாட்டை தலைகுனிய விடமாட்டேன் (@mkstalin) September 21, 2025
Stalin said that his party, DMK, stands with the Muslim community as it opposed the CAA and challenged the recently passed Waqf Amendment Act in the Supreme Court. He criticised the rival All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) for not supporting the Muslim community on matters like Triple Talaq. “If Muslims face trouble, the first political outfit that comes to your support is the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam,” Stalin said.
DMK has historically supported Muslims: Stalin
Heaping praises on Prophet Muhammad for preaching ‘egalitarian and loving principles,’ and matched them with the ideologies of Periyar E V Ramasamy and DMK leaders like C N Annadurai and M Karunanidhi. Highlighting the pro-Muslim decisions taken by the DMK government, Stalin said that his party’s government ensured 3.5 per cent internal reservation for Muslims under the Backwards Class (BC) category, and included Urdu-speaking Muslims in the BC list, created a welfare board for minorities, established the Tamil Nadu Urdu Academy and launched the under-construction Haj House near Chennai airport. He pointed out how his party has historically supported the rights of Muslims. He said that M Karunanidhi declared Milad-un-Nabi as a public holiday in 1969, and restored it in 2006 after AIADMK discontinued it in 2001.
To further appease the Muslims in the state, Stalin expressed concern over the situation in Gaza and urged the central government to take firm steps to stop ‘atrocities’ in the area. “There must be an immediate end to the atrocities faced by the Palestinians, and the Central government should take resolute steps in this connection,” Stalin said.
The BJP attacked the DMK government over the inclusion of Prophet Muhammad’s teachings in the school curriculum, calling it the party’s communal agenda. “This is very clearly a communal agenda by the DMK. They have been saying that DMK is a communal party, always trying to gain the votes of the Muslim community,” said BJP spokesperson Narayan Tirupati.
Interestingly, MK Stalin, who vowed to wage a ‘langauge war’ against the so-called imposition of Hindi language on non-Hindi speaking states, to protect Tamilian identity, does not see any threat to Tamilian identity by including teachings of Prophet Muhammad in the school curriculum.
A poster of ‘I Love Muhammad’ was put up in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on 4th September, which was opposed by some Hindu organizations. After which, the UP Police registered a case against 25 youths in this case. Since then, there have been protests against the action of the UP Police, which has now reached Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttarakhand.
Now, the tension reached the Kashipur of Udham Singh Nagar district in Uttarakhand, where violence broke out during a protest procession.
According to the media reports, “I Love Muhammad” procession was taken out in Kashipur in Uttarakhand’s Udham Singh Nagar. It is being reported that permission was not taken to take out the procession. As the rally moved through the Ali Khan area, stone-pelting, vandalism, and even assaults broke out. Some of the miscreants involved in the procession beat the police, which made the situation uncontrollable.
Police team to identify miscreants
However, on the directions of the police, SP (City) Abhay Singh and the police force reached to the spot and brought the situation under control. The police immediately formed teams and started identifying the miscreants with the help of CCTV footage and videos across the city. Police said that the miscreants will not be spared at any cost, and no casualties were reported in the city, nor were the industry-trade damaged.
SP of Kashipur Abhay Singh said, “The atmosphere deteriorated during the procession without permission, but the entire city has been kept under control due to the prompt action of the police and the wisdom of our team.”
“Samajwadi Party leader Nadeem Akhtar and his associates have played a major role in this mishap. Strict action will be taken against all the accused. The local administration has appealed to the citizens to maintain peace and made it clear that Uttarakhand has the rule of law. No one will be allowed to indulge in goonda raj or unrest,” he added.
Ahead of state assembly elections in Bihar, the ‘first family’ of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) seems to have devised a new method to deflect public discourse from the real issues. This new method is the classic family drama of a ‘rift in the family’. The alleged feud in the Lalu family emerged in public as Rohini Acharya, Lalu Yadav’s daughter, is reported to be unhappy with the expanding clout of Sanjay Yadav, the political adviser to former Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav.
Recently, Rohini Yadav also unfollowed her brother, Tejashwi Yadav, and father, Lalu Yadav, on X. In fact, she unfollowed all RJD leaders and even made her account private temporarily.
Before this, she reposted a post criticising Sanjay Yadav’s presence at Tejashwi’s ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’, which ended on 20th September. The post in question, published by one Alok Kumar, argued that while Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Yadav was seated in the front seat of the yatra bus the seat was for either Lalu Prasad or Tejashwi and should remain unoccupied in their absence.
“The front seat is always designated for top leadership. No one should sit on it even when the leader is absent. It is a different matter when someone has the notion of being bigger than the top leader. We, along with the people of Bihar, are used to seeing Lalu Prasad or Tejashwi Prasad Yadav taking the front seat. We cannot tolerate anyone else sitting in the front seat. However, we cannot comment on sycophants who see in a person a unique strategist, advisor, and saviour,” the social media post reposted by Rohini Acharya read, although it no longer appears on her X profile.
Reports say that Rohini Acharya’s public support to narrative critical of Sanjay Yadav did not go well with her family. Acharya has since been facing criticism within the family and was also under pressure to do damage control.
In this direction, the RJD made Dalit leaders Shiv Chandra Ram and Rekha Paswan sit in the front seat during the Yatra. Rohini Acharya was quick to share the pictures of Dalit leaders seated in the front seats and wrote on X, “It has been the prime motto of Lalu Prasad’s socio-economic justice campaign to bring forward the deprived and people on the last rung of the social ladder. It is heartening to see people from these sections sitting in the front seat in these pictures.”
The melodrama did not end here as on 19th September, Acharya shared a video of her being taken to operation theatre in 2022, when she donated her kidney to ailing father, Lalu Yadav. Along with the video clip, Rohini Acharya wrote, “Those who, with their lives in the palm of their hand, possess the spirit to make the greatest of sacrifices, fearlessness – boldness – self-respect flow in their blood…”
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Rohini Acharya contested from Saran and lost to BJP’s Rajiv Pratap Rudy. Now, Acharya was reportedly eyeing a ticket in the assembly elections, however, the party was not in favour of this. Attempting to put all speculations at rest, Acharya posted that she has no political ambitions, and for her, her self-respect is of supreme importance.
“I have fulfilled my duty and dharma as a daughter and a sister, and I will continue to do so. I have no desire for any position, nor do I have any political ambition. For me, my self-respect is supreme,” she wrote.
मैंने एक बेटी व् बहन के तौर पर अपना कर्तव्य एवं धर्म निभाया है और आगे भी निभाती रहूँगी , मुझे किसी पद की लालसा नहीं है, न मेरी कोई राजनीतिक महत्वाकांक्षा है ,मेरे लिए मेरा आत्म – सम्मान सर्वोपरि है ?
This post, however, came across as rather a confirmation that there is indeed a rift in the family and Rohini Acharya indeed had political ambitions. Not to forget, even Tej Pratap Yadav, who was earlier expelled from RJD, has also backed his sister over the issue of Sanjay Yadav’s increasing clout.
बिहार: लालू परिवार में संजय यादव को लेकर तनाव बढ़ गया है
◆ तेज प्रताप यादव ने बहन रोहिणी के समर्थन में कहा कि संजय यादव तेजस्वी यादव की कुर्सी हथियाना चाहते हैं
Tej Pratap recently alleged that Sanjay Yadav wants to “usurp” Tejashwi Yadav’s chair. Real or not, this family rift has contributed to diverting public attention in the poll-bound state from real ground-level issues to the Lalu family’s drama and internal power tussle.
As the Trump administration recently announced sweeping changes in the H1-B visa norms by imposing a staggering additional $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications, it is being speculated that the move to revise the H1-B visa norms was intended to distract Trump’s MAGA fan base from a bribery investigation against Trump’s immigration policy chief, Tom Homan.
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order revising the H1-B visa policy late on Friday (19th September), which was justified by the White House as a “crackdown on systemic abuse” of the H1-B visa system. The executive order claimed that the US companies have been laying off their American employees to hire aliens on H1-B visas at lower salaries. The changes will be effective immediately for new filings and will be effective from 12:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on September 21, 2025, for renewals.
The executive order, which created panic among H1-B visa holders, most of whom are Indians, is being viewed as a move to please the MAGA supporters of Trump by appealing to their hyper-nationalistic and anti-immigrant sentiments, and take their attention away from a now-closed bribery investigation against the Trump administration official. Notably, the Justice Department has largely dismantled the unit that prosecutes corruption cases, which took part in the Homan probe. Besides, after winning the Presidential election in November 2024, Trump appointed Homan as his “border czar”, which is an advisory role that did not require a Senate confirmation or a full background check by the FBI.
FBI closed Bribery investigation against Tom Homan
Trump’s border policy chief, Tom Homan, reportedly accepted a $50,000 bag of cash from an undercover FBI agent last year in a sting operation. However, the investigation being led by the Justice Department was closed, citing a lack of evidence, as reported by Reuters. Homan reportedly promised future immigration-related government contracts in return for the money.
The investigation against Homan started in August 2024, towards the end of the previous Biden administration, stemming from a separate investigation relating to national security. The target person in the separate national security investigation repeatedly mentioned that Homan had been taking bribes in exchange for future government contracts. As a result, an undercover sting operation was planned to catch Homan, and he fell for it. Homan was recorded accepting the bribe money of $50,000 from an undercover FBI agent.
Kash Patel termed investigation against Homan as “political”
Homan reportedly received the bribe from a restaurant chain and hinted that he would keep the money in a trust till his term in the Trump administration came to an end. Interestingly, the investigation against Homan was closed by the order of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Chief Kash Patel, after Trump came to power. “This matter originated under the previous administration and was subjected to a full review by FBI agents and Justice Department prosecutors.
They found no credible evidence of any criminal wrongdoing,” said Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche in a statement on Sunday as quoted by Reuters. “The Department’s resources must remain focused on real threats to the American people, not baseless investigations. As a result, the investigation has been closed,” the statement added. Patel and Blanche blamed the Biden administration for conducting a “blatantly political investigation” against Homan, calling it “yet another example of how the Biden Department of Justice was using its resources to target President Trump’s allies.”
Homan helped companies obtain immigration-related government contracts before joining the Trump administration
Defending Homan, who oversees the Trump administration’s campaign relating to the mass deportation of people staying illegally in the US, White House clarified that he is not involved in awarding any contracts. “He is a career law enforcement officer and lifelong public servant who is doing a phenomenal job on behalf of President Trump and the country,” White House deputy press secretary Abigail Jackson said in a statement. Homan served in the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Obama administration. He was the acting director of the ICE under the first Trump administration. During the previous Biden administration, Homan reportedly ran a consulting business to assist companies in obtaining immigration-related government contracts.
When Trump assumed office in January this year, a grand jury investigation going on against Homan in the Western District of Texas was in the preliminary stage. Emil Bove, who was acting deputy attorney general and is currently a federal judge, termed the investigation against Homan a “deep state” operation when briefed about the case in February this year. He referred to the idea that unelected officials secretly control the government.
The agitation that transpired in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, regarding an “I Love Muhammad” banner has begun to extend to other regions of the nation. The Islamists claimed that a First Information Report (FIR) was submitted due to the poster, and have been engaging in violent demonstrations throughout the country. On 21st September, a mob caused significant unrest in Unnao as well.
According to reports, more than 100 individuals from the Muslim community organized a protest march without the required permissions. This gathering included both men and a large number of women. During the procession, slogans such as “Sar tan se juda” were raised, and police personnel faced attacks and physical confrontations.
The uniform of Inspector Ajay Kumar Singh, in charge of the Gangaghat police station, was torn. The crowd started throwing stones at the cops when they attempted to pacify the former. The situation intensified to the extent that the police had to resort to lathi charge, resulting in a stampede-like scenario at the location.
Riot control vehicles and PAC personnel were dispatched, and additional support was summoned from various police stations, eventually restoring law and order after the incident. Now, police forces have been stationed in the area to maintain peace. Furthermore, law enforcement apprehended six individuals but their relatives and supporters started to create a disturbance. The authorities are presently questioning the accused.
Preliminary police inquiries have disclosed that provocative messages concerning “I Love Muhammad” were published on social media prior to the procession. The police cyber unit is currently examining these posts. They have also initiated a review of CCTV footage to pinpoint the rioters. The administration asserted that strict action has been taken against them.
FIR against 30 people
The police in Unnao have registered an FIR against 30 perpetrators, 8 of whom are specifically named in connection with the occurrence. Authorities indicated that Section 163 was enforced in the district, which forbids public assemblies, yet a massive crowd assembled. Moreover, the stone-pelting led to damage to both shops and numerous residences.
What’s the truth
Demonstrators nationwide alleged that an official complaint was lodged in Kanpur due to the display of an “I Love Muhammad” banner. This is cited as the catalyst for protests among Muslim communities across the country. However, the actual circumstances are quite different. In fact, during the Barawafat procession in Kanpur earlier this month, Muslim extremists dismantled a Hindu religious banner, which served as the main impetus for the FIR. Disregarding the reality, radicals appear determined to incite turmoil throughout the nation.
PM Modi will inaugurate the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari Temple, one of the revered 51 Shakti Peethas, later today at Udaipur in Gomati district. The redevelopment project has been completed under the Centre’s PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) Scheme, with the aim of preserving heritage while boosting religious tourism in Tripura.
The Prime Minister, arriving in Agartala this afternoon after his Arunachal Pradesh visit, will proceed to Udaipur where he will perform a puja at the temple. As per the official schedule, no public address has been planned during the visit. Elaborate security arrangements are already in place in both Agartala and Udaipur.
A temple steeped in history and legend
The Tripura Sundari Temple, also known locally as Matabari or Tripureswari Temple, is one of the most significant Shakti shrines in India. According to legend, the temple marks the spot where the right foot of Goddess Sati fell during Lord Shiva’s Tandav dance, sanctifying it as a Shakti Peetha.
In a short while, PM @narendramodi will inaugurate the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari Temple at Udaipur, Tripura — one of the 51 sacred Shakti Peethas where Maa Sati’s right foot is believed to have fallen.
The temple was built in 1501 CE by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya, who, inspired by recurring dreams of the Goddess, installed her idol on a hillock near his then-capital Udaipur. Over time, the temple became not only a spiritual center but also a unique bridge between the Vaishnava and Shakta traditions. Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in the form of a Shalgram Shila, alongside Goddess Tripura Sundari—a rare feature among Shakti shrines.
Architecturally, the sanctum is built in the Bengali Ek-Ratna style, perched atop a hillock shaped like a tortoise, giving the temple its other name, Kurma Pitha. A mystical Sri Yantra carved beneath the idol’s feet further elevates its spiritual significance, symbolizing cosmic unity of masculine and feminine energies.
Inside the sanctum, two black stone idols stand: the larger 5-foot idol of Maa Tripura Sundari, and the smaller 2-foot idol known as Chhoto-Ma, believed to have accompanied Tripura’s kings on battles and expeditions.
The temple traditions are distinct. Red hibiscus flowers are considered most auspicious offerings, while the Matabari Peda, the temple’s signature prasad, recently received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Cultural and spiritual magnet
The temple is not just a place of worship but a major cultural hub. The annual Diwali Mela at Matabari, an official two-day celebration, draws lakhs of devotees from across India and neighboring Bangladesh. It reflects the multicultural fabric of Tripura and highlights the temple’s role as a living institution of faith and festivity.
Redevelopment under the PRASHAD scheme
The ongoing redevelopment project is part of a ₹54.04 crore modernization plan, jointly funded by the Centre, which contributed ₹34.43 crore, and the state government, which provided ₹17.61 crore. Sanctioned in 2021, the project is designed to enhance both infrastructure and pilgrim facilities, ensuring greater comfort and convenience for the steadily increasing number of visitors.
The redevelopment includes marble flooring, improved pathways, and renovated entrances to give devotees easier and more dignified access to the shrine. A newly constructed three-storied complex has been built to house peda stalls, a meditation hall, guest accommodations, and office spaces, while additional facilities such as a food court, drinking water kiosks, proper drainage systems, and toilet blocks have been incorporated for the benefit of pilgrims.
The plan also provides residential areas for priests, volunteers, and temple staff, alongside waiting rooms and sitting spaces for devotees. A VIP lounge and meditation hall have been added to accommodate special visitors, and a Matabari gallery, along with shops for locals, has been created to showcase the region’s heritage and provide opportunities for local entrepreneurship.
Boost to local economy
Beyond its spiritual dimension, the project is also an economic catalyst. With over 12–15 lakh devotees visiting annually, the redeveloped complex is expected to attract even more pilgrims, strengthening local hotels, transport, handicrafts, food businesses, and guides.
Officials expect the project to generate direct and indirect employment for the local community—ranging from shopkeepers and artisans to taxi operators and hospitality providers.
By branding Udaipur as a religious-tourism hub, the state envisions Mata Tripura Sundari Temple as a centerpiece for cultural pride and economic growth.
A divine union of traditions
At its core, the Mata Tripura Sundari Temple embodies the unison of Shiva and Shakti, and the rare confluence of Shakta and Vaishnava traditions. Its legends, architecture, and living traditions make it not just a temple, but a spiritual destination of unparalleled uniqueness.
With Prime Minister Modi’s inauguration of the redeveloped complex, the temple is set to embark on a new chapter—one that preserves its ancient sanctity while preparing for a vibrant future as a global spiritual and cultural landmark.
Every year, 22nd September is marked as World Rhino Day. It is a day to make people aware of how crucial it is to preserve one of the world’s oldest and most iconic animals, the rhinoceros.
The day also highlights the significance of retaining the rhino population for environmental balance, cultural enrichment, and forest preservation. It is an appeal to join hands in the struggle for rhino protection globally.
The concept of World Rhino Day was initially conceived in 2010, when WWF-South Africa announced it as an action day. A year later, it became recognized globally, courtesy of wildlife conservationists Lisa Jane Campbell and Rhishja, who ensured that it spread around the world.
A memorable visit to Kaziranga. I invite people from all over the world to come here. pic.twitter.com/N1yW4XKRyx
Black, White, Greater One-Horned (Indian), Javan, and Sumatran are the five last remaining species of rhinos. All of them are facing extinction. Their greatest challenges are poaching of horns, illegal wildlife trade, and habitat loss due to deforestation and human settlements.
Five species of Rhinoceros of the world (Image via Baby Rhino rescue)
By commemorating World Rhino Day, the world shines the light on these dangers and urges more action, be it anti-poaching drives, habitat protection, or strict implementation of laws.
Amidst all these stories in the international rhino saga, there is a different page which is written in India, Kaziranga National Park, where the rhinos have achieved one of the most amazing turnarounds in wildlife history.
Kaziranga National Park: 12 rhinos to over 3,000
The state of affairs in Assam’s Kaziranga at the turn of the 20th century was alarming. In 1908, the greater one-horned rhino population in the park had dwindled to just 12. Sport hunting, poaching, and destruction of habitat had preyed on the species for centuries and pushed it to the brink of extinction.
Image via Kaziranga National Park
The danger was so imminent that by 1986, Indian rhinos were declared endangered. Their distinctive single horn, which was largely seen as a status symbol on the black market, and their prehistoric appearance made them perpetually in danger. As per the reports, under colonial times, particularly in the late 1800s and early 1900s, British military officers in Assam slaughtered more than 200 rhinos for sport.
But now, Kaziranga has a different tale to tell. As a result of decades-long focused conservation efforts of Indian and Assam government, the park now has a headcount of about 3000 rhinos, which accounts for nearly 70% of the global population of the greater one-horned rhino. Across Assam, the rhino headcount has now hit more than 4,000 as of 2024, a dramatic turnaround from the couple of hundred a century ago.
The CM of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma also highlighted the success story of Kaziranga National Park. He shared a post on his X account marking the achievement of increased rhino population from 600 to over 4,000 in Assam. He said, “On #Worldrhinoday, we reaffirm our commitment to the conservation of Rhino. Through initiatives such as Op Falcon, habitat expansion, and advanced monitoring, Assam has successfully increased rhino population from 600 to over 4,000 and is committed to do more in this direction.”
On #WorldRhinoDay, we re-affirm our commitment to the conservation of Rhino.
Through initiatives such as Op Falcon, habitat expansion, and advanced monitoring, Assam has successfully increased rhino population from 600 to over 4,000 and is committed to do more in this direction. pic.twitter.com/WJqXmX4Wa7
This makeover is one of the biggest conservation successes in the world. Rhinos are no longer on the brink of extinction in Kaziranga, they are thriving. Assam is now a global stronghold for the species.
In an emotional and strong statement against global rhino poaching, the Assam government in 2022 performed the ritualistic ‘Daha Sanskar’ or cremation of fallen rhinos with full Hindu rites and customs. Sending an emotive message that rhinos are ‘family’ in Assam, the government authorities then cremated 2479 seized rhino horns kept through decades of legal pursuit of poaching cases. The cremation was performed to send a message that the rhino horns have no “medicinal value”, but they are remains of Assam’s children, who would have lived a longer live had the poachers not cut it short.
On the occasion of World Rhino Day, Assam Govt burned 2,479 horns of greater one-horned rhinoceros in Golaghat today to "send a strong message to poachers that the horn is of no medicinal value" pic.twitter.com/KEYl4LksoD
Sport hunting was the primary reason behind the decline in the rhino population in Assam. Royals and British officers hunted rhinos relentlessly, making them trophies. By 1908, Kaziranga had just a few left. Rhino horn poaching has been an ongoing scourge, too.
Even in the early 20th century, poachers found different ways to kill rhinos for their horns, which are sold in illegal black markets under false beliefs that they have medicinal or aesthetic worth.
Graph via PIB
Up to 692 rhinos were poached alone during the years 1980-1993 in India. Even in recent years, despite stricter laws, instances of poaching continue to surface. 102 rhinos were poached in India between 2008 and 2019, most of them in Assam.
Habitat loss was also a major issue. As human populations increased, grasslands used by rhinos started to reduce. Rhinos strayed into villages during their search for food, and this resulted in confrontation with villagers. Many were killed in the process.
Population density was also a problem. As rhino numbers began rising in small areas like Kaziranga and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, it became resource-intensive and affected the breeding ratio. This was one of the reasons conservationists later relocated rhinos to other parks so that they would have larger spaces to live in.
How India set an example globally
India is now globally hailed as the most successful conservation story for rhinos, but it did not happen overnight. Laws, enforcement, people’s involvement, and global cooperation are the major efforts to bring about core changes.
India is a world leader when it comes to rhino conservation! I’ve seen it with my own eyes. And it’s no surprise when your PM tweets celebrating World Rhino Day. If only he could influence the SA president to do the same. ??
The Assam Forest Protection Act of 1891 and the Bengal Rhinoceros Preservation Act of 1932 were the first legislative actions. These initial regulations were the start of official protection for rhinos. These early laws established different forest-related crimes, including trespassing, setting fires, or destroying vegetation, and had penalties associated with them. Most notably, they banned the killing, wounding, or capture of rhinos, except in self-defense or with special permits.
Government’s efforts to save Rhino (Image via PIB)
The Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 was the most effective one, which provided a firm legal framework to fight poaching. An amendment in Assam in 2009 made the law even stricter, with life imprisonment for repeat offenders. These laws sent a clear signal, poaching would no longer be tolerated.
But laws alone were not enough. The Assam government also had to work closely with local communities, who live near rhino habitats. Over the years, awareness campaigns and benefits from tourism helped build local support. People began to see rhinos not as a threat but as a symbol of pride and livelihood.
Indian Rhino Vision 2020: A turning point
This initiative was introduced in 2005, It was an ambitious project to ensure the long-term existence of the one-horned rhinoceros. The project was undertaken by the Assam government, Bodoland Territorial Council, International Rhino Foundation (IRF), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), and the US Fish & Wildlife Service.
The plan was to double India’s rhino population and make it up to 3,000 by the year 2020 and relocate them to seven sanctuaries in Assam. The plan was to see that rhinos are not overcrowded in a single park. Spread them out in other protected parks like Manas National Park, Laokhowa-Burachapori-Kochmora, and Dibru-Saikhowa so they can breed in security.
18 rhinos were shifted from Kaziranga and Pobitora to Manas National Park between 2008 and 2012, and another 8 followed. This had been a success because Manas soon after saw the birth of new calves.
This was not only a relocation mission. It involved building patrol roads, guard posts, as well as monitoring systems to keep poaching under control.
National Rhino conservation strategy and IRV 2.0
India launched the National Rhino Conservation Strategy after the success of IRV 2020, a comprehensive policy for the conservation of India’s endangered greater one-horned rhinoceros. Its major programs involve developing DNA profiles for all the rhinos in India for effective protection and monitoring.
After the success of earlier conservation initiatives such as the Indian Rhino Vision 2020, this policy lays out a future-oriented framework to help ensure the survival of the species in the long run. It is India’s first standalone, umbrella policy for rhino conservation. This path-breaking initiative represents a major leap in India’s efforts to conserve its wildlife, with a focused and integrated strategy to protect one of its most emblematic species.
Now, the campaign has entered a second phase, known as Indian Rhino Vision 2.0. The aim is to secure and maintain at least three meta-populations of 4,500–5,000 greater one-horned rhinos in Assam by 2030.
— Chief Minister Assam (@CMOfficeAssam) March 9, 2024
IRV 2.0 lays stress on habitat enhancement, rhino range extension, community involvement, crime surveillance, and hands-on conservation action. Kaziranga: A global model for conservation
The fame of Kaziranga today is global. Essentially, it’s the backbone of the global rhino conservation project, hosting nearly 70% of the greater one-horned rhinos in the world. Kaziranga had a staggering 2,613 rhinos reported in the 2022 census alone.
The park has also become a symbol of what conservation with perseverance can achieve. From just 12 rhinos in 1908, Kaziranga now easily crossed 3,000+ rhinos in Assam and is one of the most successful wildlife revivals anywhere globally.
Increase In Assam Rhino Population 1966-2022 (Based on actual census records) (Graph via PIB)
Despite this much initiatives for the population of Rhinos, they continue to be under threat from poaching, with almost 10,000 rhinos being poached in the last ten years to satisfy demand for their horns, which are valued in traditional medicine as well as status symbols, especially in China and Vietnam. Rhino products represent 29% of internationally trafficked illegal wildlife commodities, says the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
That is why World Rhino Day is significant. It’s a reminder that conservation is never complete. Rhinos are not just animals, they’re a part of India’s ecological and cultural heritage. Preserving them is preserving the balance of nature itself.
The history of the greater one-horned rhino in India, from the brink of extinction in the early 1900s and back to today’s prosperous population of over 4,000, is nothing short of a miracle. And centring this tale is Kaziranga National Park, now the globe’s strongest rhino fortress. Kaziranga has evolved into a world-renowned wildlife tourism hotspot, drawing both domestic and international visitors and further fueling awareness and support for rhino conservation.
In a major development, the Madras High Court shot down the nefarious objective of a mosque to encroach upon 1100 acres of land in Kandiyaperi village in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
For the unversed, the Kanmiya Pallivasal (mosque) had filed a civil suit before the Waqf Tribunal (Tiruneveli Principal Sub Court) in 2011, staking its claim on the large tract of land.
Interestingly, the tribunal had passed an order favouring the mosque in August 2016, declaring that the 1100 acres of land belonged to the Muthawalli (trustee) of Kanmiya Pallivasal.
The AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu had challenged the decision of the Waqf Tribunal (Tiruneveli Principal Sub Court) in 2018 by filing a civil revision petition before the Madras High Court.
The government pointed out that the Kanmiya Pallivasal was not entitled to any land. It stated that the survey numbers listed by the mosque in its 2011 civil suit were notified as ‘ryotwari lands’ in 1966.
The categorisation of the said parcel of land was done under the Tamil Nadu Inam (Abolition & Conversion into Ryotwari) Act of 1963. As such, it could not be redesignated as Waqf land.
The Additional Advocate General (AAG) had highlighted that some of the land was even given to landless poor and that about 362 people are currently engaged in agriculture on the pattas.
Page 15 of the order copy read –
“It is the further submission of the learned Addl. Advocate General that the subject lands are around 1100 acres falling in three hamlets in the revenue village of Urumankulam and during patta proceedings, several parcels of lands were given on assignment to landless poor and 362 persons are doing agricultural operations based on assignment pattas and, therefore, the claim of the 1st respondent for issuance of ryotwari patta is not acceptable, moreso, on the basis of the declaratory decree passed in O.S. No.299/2011 which is not based on proper appreciation of materials and, therefore, the said judgment and decree requires interference at the hands of this Court.“
What did the Madras High Court say
The matter came up for hearing before a Bench of Justice M Dhandapani. The court awarded roughly 2.34 acres of land to the Kanmiya Pallivasal but dismissed its unsubstantiated claim to 1100 acres of land.
The Judge noted that a grant of 75 Kottahs was given to the mosque by the ruler of Madurai Samasthanam in 1712. A copper plate inscription in Telugu, which read, “Sarva Manyam for Masjid Dharmam”, was provided to the mosque.
The tax-free grant was also registered in the Inam Fair Register for the years 1865-1866. The copper plate was transcribed in 1925 and was established in a judgment in by the Tinnevelly Subordinate Court in 1952.
The Madras High Court converted the grant of 75 Kottahs to its modern equivalent of 2.3430 acres. It noted that the mosque’s claim to over 1,000 acres in the 2011 civil suit was based on modern survey numbers.
None of these survey were were mentioned in the 1712 grant or in the 1952 judgment. The court found no evidence of when these lands were surveyed and officially linked to the original grant of of Madurai Samasthanam.
Page 69 of the order read –
“There is no whisper in the entire plaints relating to O.S. No.49/1952, O.S. No.65/1961 and also in O.S. No.299/2011 that any survey of the said lands were undertaken at any point of time.“
“In fact, even the 2nd respondent, the Wakf Board, has not whispered about any survey having been undertaken of the said lands, which were given as grant.”
“Further, the proforma filed u/s 5 of the Wakf Act with regard to the survey conducted by the Wakf also does not disclose the survey numbers of the lands. Such being the case, this Court is at a loss to understand as to how the survey numbers were identified and culled out to claim declaration of title and recovery of possession while filing O.S. No.299/2011.“
Page 70 of the order stated –
“…The list of survey numbers given and the extent of lands, which are claimed to be the lands that were granted through the copper plate works to a vast extent of more than 1000 acres of land, this Court is at a loss to understand as to how the said identification of the lands was made and by which authority it was made.“
The Madras High Court stated that the judgment in the 1952 case, which established the grant of 75 Kottahs (~2.34 acres), was binding on both the Tamil Nadu government and the Kanmiya Pallivasal.
Since the mosque had also accepted the findings of that case, it had no right to expand its claim beyond the specified 75 Kottahs.
Page 65 of the order read –
“As has already been held by this Court, the judgment and decree passed in O.S. No.49/1952 has since attained finality and it stands undisturbed by the passing of Act, 1963 as also Act, 1908 and Act 30/1947. Therefore, both the parties to the present lis are bound by the judgment and decree passed in O.S. No.49/1952.“
Page 68 of the order stated –
“It is an admitted fact, as is also revealed through the findings in O.S. No.49/1952 that the extent of land given as grant through the copper plate is 75 Kathas/Kottahs. Therefore, the entitlement of the Pallivasal could only be to the extent of 75 Kottahs and not any more…”
After thwarting attempts to encroach upon 1100 acres of land, it directed the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board to identify 2.34 acres of land to be given to the mosque as per the 1712 copper plate inscription.
Page 72 of the order read –
“The Wakf Board is directed to take up a fresh exercise to identify the lands, which have been granted under the copper plate and prepare a fresh proforma which would be relatable only to the extent of 75 Kathas/Kottahs, which works out to 2.3430 acres (Two Acre Thirty Four Cents and One Thirty Square Feet) after calling for necessary objections from persons interested in the said lands and after considering the said objections prepare the proforma.“
Page 73 of the order stated –
“The aforesaid exercise of identification of lands so granted under the copper plate and forwarding of the proforma shall be undertaken by the Wakf Board/2nd respondent and completed as early as possible.“
Although the Maras High Court upheld the 1712 historical grant by the ruler of Madurai Samasthanam (as established in the 1952 judgment), it prevented the encroachment of 1100 acres of land.
While the mosque was given75 Kottahs (~2.34 acres) of land, its nefarious claim to vast track of lands was shot down.
