Guwahati, May 16: Assam marked Endangered Species Day with a milestone in wildlife conservation as the country’s first satellite-tagged Ganges softshell turtle was released at Kaziranga National Park. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the development on Friday, describing it as a proud moment for the state and a significant step toward safeguarding vulnerable species.
Sharing the news on X, Sarma wrote, “A first for India at Kaziranga! Marking Endangered Species Day, the country’s 1st satellite-tagged Ganges softshell turtle was released in Kaziranga, a major step for wildlife conservation.” He emphasized Assam’s commitment to protecting every species that inhabits its forests and wetlands, adding, “A proud moment for Assam as we continue to protect every species that calls our forests home.”
The initiative reflects Assam’s broader conservation efforts, which recently included the inauguration of the Kaziranga Orchid Park at Kohora. Opened on March 3, the park spans 20 bighas and was developed at a cost of approximately ₹16 crore. It houses over 900 species of indigenous and exotic orchids displayed in seven glasshouses and natural settings. The facility also features a children’s garden, a 500-seat amphitheatre, a traditional cuisine restaurant, tourist accommodations, and an administrative building. Designed to integrate conservation, education, recreation, and tourism, the Orchid Park aims to provide visitors with a holistic experience while promoting biodiversity preservation.
