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Blog / 15 Jul 2025

Assam's Genetic Initiative for Rhino Horn Samples

Context:

The Assam Forest Department recently initiated the genetic analysis of 2,573 rhino horn samples, marking a significant phase in India’s fight against wildlife crime. This effort is part of the RhoDIS India (Rhino DNA Index System) programme — a scientific, forensic tool designed to track and identify individual rhinos using DNA extracted from their horns.

About RhoDIS India programme:

The Rhino DNA Index System (RhoDIS India) is a national-level forensic DNA database created to:

  • Generate genetic profiles of individual rhinos.
  • Track the origin of rhino horn samples recovered in poaching or illegal trade.
  • Support law enforcement with irrefutable scientific evidence.

Key Features:

  • Based on a model pioneered in South Africa, where RhoDIS has been instrumental in curbing rhino poaching.
  • Uses Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) — unique DNA sequences that act like genetic fingerprints.
  • Administered by the Wildlife Institute of India, with support from:
    • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
    • WWF-India
    • Rhino-range states, including Assam, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.

Current DNA Study Objectives:

The ongoing study at WII’s genetics lab (July 2025) focuses on:

1. Creating Individual DNA Profiles

  • Enables identification of specific rhinos and comparison with future horn seizures.

2. Studying STR Allele Frequency Shifts

  • Detects changes in genetic diversity over time.
  • Assesses potential impacts of inbreeding, habitat fragmentation, or poaching pressure.

3. Strengthening Population Monitoring

  • Helps understand rhino population structure, movement, and genetic health.

About One-Horned Rhino;

About:

  • One of the five rhino species globally (others: White, Black, Javan, Sumatran).
  • Only rhino species found in India.
  • Largest among all rhino species.
  • Recognized by a single black horn and grey-brown skin with folds.
  • Herbivorous: primarily grazes on grasses, also consumes leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants.

Habitat:

  • Found in Indo-Nepal Terai, northern West Bengal, and Assam.
  • In India, populations exist in:
    • Assam: ~2,640 rhinos
      • Kaziranga National Park (KNP): ~2,400 rhinos
      • Pabitora WLS, Manas NP, Orang NP
    • West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh (smaller numbers)

Protection Status:

  • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
  • CITES: Appendix I (highest level of protection)
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest protection under Indian law)

 

Major Threats:

  • Poaching for horns
  • Habitat loss and fragmentation
  • High population density in limited areas
  • Declining genetic diversity

Conservation Efforts:

  • National Rhino Conservation Strategy (2019)
  • Indian Rhino Vision 2020 (2005–2020): Targeted 3,000 rhinos in 7 protected areas in Assam
  • RhoDIS India: DNA profiling of all rhinos to support monitoring and anti-poaching
  • New Delhi Declaration on Asian Rhinos (2019): Signed by 5 range countries—India, Nepal, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia

Conclusion:

With over 2,600 rhino horns examined and samples prepared for genetic analysis, Assam’s initiative sets a precedent in using science and policy together for conservation. As the RhoDIS India database grows, it will serve as a critical tool for rhino protection, wildlife crime investigation, and ensuring the genetic future of India’s iconic one-horned rhino.