In a landmark conservation effort, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday released four wild buffaloes sent from Assam's Kaziranga National Park into the Kanha Tiger Reserve, marking the species' return to the state after more than a century.
Historic Day for Wildlife
Calling it a "historic day for Madhya Pradesh's wildlife and ecosystem," Yadav said the reintroduction would enrich forests, boost tourism, and create local employment. The four wild buffaloes, one male and three females, traveled over 2,000 kilometers on road in special vehicles and reached their new home after three days. Throughout the journey, the convoy was closely monitored by wildlife experts, with continuous veterinary care, food, and hydration provided to safeguard the animals' health, an official said.
Reintroduction Plan
Yadav wrote on X, "Madhya Pradesh is leading in wildlife conservation... The arrival of wild buffaloes on the soil of Madhya Pradesh after more than 100 years is a wonderful opportunity for our ecosystem. A plan is in place for the rehabilitation of a total of 50 wild buffaloes." Around 50 buffaloes will be translocated over three years to build a stable breeding population in Kanha. Madhya Pradesh has also proposed support for Assam's conservation initiatives by offering gharials for potential reintroduction efforts.
Species Background
The wild buffalo (Bubalus arnee), listed as "Endangered" by the IUCN, once roamed extensively across central India but disappeared from Kanha due to hunting, habitat loss, and disease transmission from domestic cattle. Today, Kaziranga holds the largest viable population, making it the natural source for reintroduction.
Interstate Cooperation
Yadav also thanked Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for cooperation, noting discussions on exchanging species such as wild buffaloes and rhinoceroses. Officials emphasized that relocation is not just about moving animals but about rebuilding ecological connections across India's protected areas. Conservationists hailed the initiative as a milestone in India's wildlife strategy.
