Celebrating 25 Years of Wildlife Rehabilitation at Kaziranga

The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC) in Kaziranga celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Established in 2002, CWRC has successfully treated and released thousands of animals back into the wild, responding to emergencies and engaging with local communities to reduce human-wildlife conflict. The centre has played a pivotal role in various conservation initiatives, including the reintroduction of rhinos into Manas National Park. With its commitment to wildlife care and community outreach, CWRC continues to be a leader in conservation efforts in Assam.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 31, 2026, 10:43 IST

A Milestone in Wildlife Conservation

Kaziranga, Aug 30: The Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CWRC), operated by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) near Kaziranga National Park, proudly marks its 25th anniversary dedicated to the rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation of wildlife.

Founded on August 28, 2002, the facility was initially located at Borjuri in Kaziranga and became the first in India specifically designed for the hand-raising, treatment, and release of orphaned and injured animals back into their natural habitats.

Throughout its history, CWRC has played a crucial role in rescuing wildlife during severe flooding in Kaziranga and other regions of Assam, as well as addressing wildlife emergencies caused by accidents and other incidents.

The centre operates in collaboration with the Assam Forest Department and WTI, with support from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).

Since its establishment, CWRC and its Mobile Veterinary Service (MVS) units have handled over 10,000 wildlife rescue cases, achieving a remarkable success rate of nearly 68% in treating and returning animals to the wild.

With two MVS units, CWRC extends its services throughout eastern and western Assam, offering emergency veterinary assistance, hand-raising of orphaned animals when necessary, and preparing rescued wildlife for reintroduction following established management protocols.

Flood rescues constitute a significant aspect of the centre's operations. Veterinary teams and caregivers work alongside the State’s Forest Department to rescue animals that are stranded, injured, or displaced during floods, providing urgent veterinary care and reuniting young animals with their mothers whenever possible.

In addition to emergency responses, CWRC engages with local communities through outreach initiatives aimed at minimizing human-wildlife conflicts and enhancing community-led conservation efforts.

Over the last 25 years, the centre has significantly contributed to various landmark conservation projects. Since 2006, CWRC has been instrumental in the reintroduction of rhinos into Manas National Park by rehabilitating rescued individuals.

Other notable efforts include the rehabilitation of Asiatic black bear cubs in Manas and Dihing Patkai National Parks, the rescue of wild buffalo in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, Laokhowa, and Burachapori wildlife sanctuaries, as well as the rescue of hoolock gibbons.

Moreover, the centre has developed into a training hub for wildlife rescue veterinarians, biologists, and conservation professionals.