How Are the ‘Van Durgas’ Making a Difference in Kaziranga?
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Synopsis
Discover the inspiring story of the ‘Van Durgas,’ the brave women protecting Kaziranga National Park. Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya commends their dedication in safeguarding wildlife and promoting sustainable tourism. With the park's reopening for the 2025-26 season, it’s time to explore the remarkable flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key Takeaways
- The ‘Van Durgas’ are essential for wildlife protection in Kaziranga.
- Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The park officially reopened for the 2025-26 tourism season on September 26.
- Record tourist numbers were reported in the 2024-25 season.
- Initiatives promote sustainable tourism and community engagement.
Guwahati, Sep 29 (NationPress) Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Monday acknowledged the brave and devoted efforts of ‘Van Durgas’ who play a vital role in safeguarding the Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) and its wildlife.
During his visit to the world heritage site, the Governor, accompanied by the First Lady Kumud Devi, explored the habitat of the one-horned rhinoceros.
Acharya praised the commitment of the ‘Van Durgas’ in maintaining the safety and sustainability of the park’s ecosystem.
Entering through the Bagori Range, the Governor enjoyed a jeep safari, immersing himself in the park’s rich biodiversity.
He assessed ongoing efforts aimed at wildlife protection and environmental conservation, even sharing moments with elephants by feeding them sugarcane.
The Governor remarked that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited Kaziranga in March 2024, the park has seen significant infrastructural improvements.
These advancements, he noted, have enhanced tourism and solidified Kaziranga’s reputation as a World Heritage Site of both ecological and cultural significance.
Known as 'Van Durga', the female frontline forest staff are crucial in preserving the biodiversity and wildlife of KNPTR, India’s seventh UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During his March visit, PM Modi interacted with the ‘Van Durga’ team, recognizing their frontline conservation efforts in Kaziranga.
Modi expressed deep appreciation for the dedication, courage, and performance of the ‘Van Durga’ team at KNPTR.
He had also embarked on a jeep and elephant safari after spending a night at the World Heritage site of Kaziranga National Park.
Recently, the park officially reopened for tourists on September 26, marking the start of the 2025-26 tourism season.
The Director of KNPTR, Sonali Ghosh, stated that with the tourism season commencing, visitors can once again experience the park’s remarkable flora and fauna, including the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and diverse bird species.
These initiatives reinforce Kaziranga’s commitment to wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, and community engagement, she mentioned.
The official tourism season at KNPTR typically runs from October to mid-May, as the internationally renowned park and tiger reserve is closed during the monsoon when extensive flooding occurs from June to September.
In 2024-25, KNPTR experienced a record high of 4,06,564 tourists, including 17,693 foreign visitors.
Ghosh noted that the total visitors to Kaziranga in 2024-25 have increased fourfold over the past decade.
What stands out is the surge in foreign tourists (17,693), now making up an impressive 4.5% of the total visitors. Kaziranga is witnessing a significant tourism boom, attributed to the recent success of innovative initiatives.
An Indian Forest Service official reported a 21.19% increase in revenue during the 2024-25 fiscal year compared to the previous year (2023-24).
The National Park spans several districts in Assam, including Golaghat, Nagaon, Sonitpur, and Biswanath, generating revenue of over Rs 10.90 crore in 2024-25 and Rs 8.81 crore in 2023-24.
Point of View
The dedication of the ‘Van Durgas’ in Kaziranga is a testament to India's commitment to wildlife conservation. Their ongoing efforts not only protect the rich biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site but also promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and learn from this ecological treasure.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the ‘Van Durgas’ in Kaziranga?
The ‘Van Durgas’ are a dedicated team of female frontline forest staff responsible for protecting the biodiversity and wildlife of Kaziranga National Park.
When does the tourism season for Kaziranga start?
The official tourism season for Kaziranga National Park typically runs from October to mid-May.
What are some wildlife species found in Kaziranga?
Kaziranga is home to iconic species such as the one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and a variety of birds.
How many tourists visited Kaziranga in the 2024-25 season?
Kaziranga National Park witnessed a record 4,06,564 tourists, including 17,693 foreign visitors, in the 2024-25 season.
What is the significance of Kaziranga National Park?
Kaziranga is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ecological and cultural importance, making it a vital area for wildlife conservation.
