If one analyses and delves into the results of rhinoceros population conservation efforts in Nepal, the number of animals has increased from 100 individuals in 1965 to 752 in 2021. It is to be hoped that this successful population increase will continue.

Up until the 1950s, more than 1,000 rhinoceroses lived in Nepal's grasslands and forests. By 1965, indiscriminate hunting, poaching and changes in land use had pushed the rhinoceroses in Nepal to the brink of extinction. In 1973, a national park was established, and thanks to joint efforts, the population began to recover and regenerate.

Today, Chitwan National Park is home to the second-largest rhinoceros population in the world. (Kaziranga National Park in India is in first place). These two national parks combined are home to around 70% of the global rhinoceros population. The rhinoceroses of Chitwan National Park simultaneously maintain the balance of the ecosystem and provide a significant economic contribution to the country, as tourists are keen to visit the park specifically because of these animals. For instance, in 2019, the number of visitors was 185,000.
Photo Gemunu Amarasinghe