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.