Celebrating 23 Years of Wildlife Conservation at Kaziranga's CWRC

The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) in Kaziranga, Assam, celebrates 23 years of dedicated wildlife conservation. Since its inception in 2002, CWRC has successfully managed over 9,500 rescue cases, returning 63% of animals to their natural habitats. The facility, a collaboration between the Assam Forest Department, Wildlife Trust of India, and IFAW, plays a crucial role in responding to the annual floods that threaten wildlife. With mobile veterinary units and community outreach programs, CWRC not only saves lives but also fosters conservation efforts. Discover how this pioneering center continues to make a significant impact on wildlife protection.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 31, 2025, 13:15 IST

Kaziranga's Wildlife Rehabilitation Milestone

Kaziranga, Aug 31: The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) in Kaziranga, Assam, proudly commemorates 23 years as India's first specialized facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of wild animals. Established in 2002, CWRC has successfully managed over 9,500 wildlife rescue operations, achieving an impressive 63% success rate in returning animals to their natural environments.

The initiative was launched in response to the annual flooding in Kaziranga, providing immediate relief and rehabilitation for countless displaced and injured wildlife each monsoon. Situated within Kaziranga National Park, CWRC is a collaborative effort between the Assam Forest Department, Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). It uniquely caters to the welfare and rehabilitation of 357 wildlife species, including rhinos, elephant calves, clouded leopards, and hog deer.

CWRC operates two Mobile Veterinary Service (MVS) units that deliver emergency care throughout Eastern and Western Assam, enhancing wildlife protection in remote and flood-affected areas. Their innovative strategies have not only saved numerous lives but have also led to significant conservation milestones, such as the reintroduction of rhinos to Manas National Park and the relocation of hoolock gibbons to safer environments. The dedicated teams at CWRC have successfully rehabilitated orphaned elephants, wild buffaloes, black bears, and greater adjutant storks, many of whom were rescued during crises.

Each year, Kaziranga National Park endures severe flooding that endangers both wildlife and local populations. In these emergencies, CWRC's rescue teams act swiftly, deploying 30 to 40 veterinarians, keepers, and volunteers across four specialized units and temporary camps for intensive rescue operations. Their MVS units are crucial in reaching stranded or orphaned animals, particularly rhino and elephant calves, deer, and otters, while also engaging with nearby communities to mitigate human-animal conflicts and promote community-driven conservation initiatives. CWRC's flood-season efforts routinely save over 700 animals annually, solidifying its role as Assam's frontline in wildlife disaster response.

The enduring impact of CWRC exemplifies the effectiveness of science-based conservation and the strength of collaborative partnerships in safeguarding India's invaluable wildlife and natural heritage.