The Madhya Pradesh-Assam Wildlife Exchange Program, finalized in late January and implemented in February 2026, involves bringing which animal to Madhya Pradesh?

The correct answer is One-horned Rhino . Key Points The Madhya Pradesh-Assam Wildlife Exchange Program was finalized in late January and implemented in February 2026, focusing on the introduction of the One-horned Rhino to Madhya Pradesh. The program aims to reintroduce the species to areas where it has historically existed but is no longer found, thereby contributing to ecological restoration. One-horned Rhinos , also known as Indian Rhinos, are primarily found in regions of Assam, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. They are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This initiative is part of broader conservation efforts to protect endangered species and promote biodiversity in wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, such as the Satpura Tiger Reserve. The relocation program is supported by the Government of India and involves close collaboration between Assam and Madhya Pradesh's forest departments. Additional Information One-horned Rhino Characteristics: The One-horned Rhino, scientifically known as Rhinoceros unicornis , is the largest of the rhino species and is recognized by its single black horn and thick grey skin with folds. It is primarily found in the grasslands and wetlands of the Indian subcontinent. Its diet consists of grasses, fruits, leaves, and aquatic plants, making it a herbivore . Conservation Status: One-horned Rhinos are categorized as vulnerable under the IUCN Red List due to threats such as poaching for their horns and habitat loss. India and Nepal have been successful in conservation efforts, with numbers rising in protected areas such as Kaziranga National Park in Assam. Wildlife Exchange Programs: These programs aim to promote biodiversity by relocating species between regions for conservation and ecological balance. Such programs also ensure genetic diversity and reduce the risk of extinction for vulnerable species. Other Species in Options: Asiatic Lion: Found primarily in the Gir Forest of Gujarat, these lions are endangered but are not part of the Madhya Pradesh-Assam exchange program. Red Panda: Native to the Himalayan regions and northeastern India, they are endangered and primarily found in states like Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Snow Leopard: Found in the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, these elusive big cats are also endangered but are not part of this specific program. Important Points Kaziranga National Park: Located in Assam, Kaziranga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest population of One-horned Rhinos. The park is known for its successful conservation model, which includes stringent anti-poaching measures. Satpura Tiger Reserve: One of the proposed areas for the introduction of One-horned Rhinos in Madhya Pradesh. This reserve is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting species like tigers, leopards, and sloth bears. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Under this Indian legislation, species like the One-horned Rhino receive the highest protection in Schedule I. The Act aims to prevent poaching and ensure the survival of endangered species.