Kaziranga National Park in Assam, home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, has long been a symbol of India’s conservation success. At the heart of this achievement is Dr. Sonali Ghosh, the park’s Field Director and the first Indian to receive the prestigious WCPA-Kenton Miller Award from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Her leadership has not only strengthened the park’s protection efforts but has also empowered local communities and pioneered sustainable eco-tourism initiatives.
Journalist Rhea Dadinath spoke with Dr. Ghosh about her journey, her vision for Kaziranga, and the innovations that have put India on the global conservation map.
Q1. Congratulations on the WCPA-Kenton Miller Award! What does this honour mean to you and to Kaziranga National Park?
Dr. Sonali Ghosh: Thank you. This is a global award for protected area management and sustainability, named after Dr. Kenton, a pioneering conservationist. Personally, I feel honoured and humbled. More importantly, it recognises the Indian system of protected area governance, particularly in Assam, and acknowledges the efforts of the forest department and local communities who take pride in the one-horned rhinoceros.
Q2.What has been your biggest challenge so far?
Dr. Ghosh: As a World Heritage site recognised for its landscapes and iconic species, protecting its Outstanding Universal Value is key. Challenges include controlling poaching and minimizing human-animal conflicts, especially since Kaziranga is home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos, the 3rd largest tiger density, and over 99% of wild buffalo.
Q3. How do local communities help in the process?
Dr. Ghosh: Communities are essential. At Kaziranga, over 2,000–3,000 families benefit directly or indirectly from tourism, which is entirely managed by them. They also rely on ecosystem services for livelihoods, making them active participants in conservation. Without this engagement, the park’s protection wouldn’t be sustainable.
Q4. Could you share a recent success story in wildlife rehabilitation or conservation that you are particularly proud of?
Dr. Ghosh: One major achievement is the reintroduction of rhinos from Kaziranga to Manas, a park previously devoid of rhinos due to armed conflict. Young rhinos rescued during floods were reared and released into the wild. Today, the Manas population has grown to over 50 rhinos—an effort I am very proud to have been part of.
Q5. Sustainable innovations?
Dr. Ghosh: We focus on community-driven solutions. For example, managing solid waste, removing single-use plastics, and addressing invasive species like water hyacinth by turning them into paper and handicrafts under a circular economy model. These small experiments aim for wider replication across the landscape.
Q6. Your advice to young women who want to follow your path?
Dr. Ghosh: Follow your heart and cultivate a strong work ethic. Work from the grassroots, live and work alongside communities, and immerse yourself in the realities of conservation.
Q7. What next?
Dr. Ghosh: Our priorities include responsible tourism growth—we want visitors worldwide to know Kaziranga not only for its iconic species but for its conservation excellence. We also aim to manage our mega fauna populations carefully, especially dispersing animals in buffer areas, ensuring their safety while balancing human interaction.
