GOH Rhino Conservation Planning
Scientific leadership and strategic coordination for the conservation of the greater one-horned rhino across its range in India and Nepal.
Mandate
To provide scientific leadership and strategic coordination for the conservation of the greater one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) across its range in India and Nepal. The sub-committee advances evidence-based management, monitors population trends, advises on policy, and supports range state governments in delivering their national rhino conservation strategies.
Key responsibilities
- Develop and periodically review the AsRSG’s greater one-horned rhino conservation strategy and action plan.
- Monitor population status and range across India and Nepal, and report findings to the Leadership Team.
- Provide technical advice to range state governments, protected area authorities and intergovernmental bodies.
- Coordinate rapid response to emerging threats including poaching, climate impacts, flooding and habitat loss.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange between Indian and Nepalese range state managers and field teams.
- Support the Red List Authority in preparing IUCN assessments for the species.
- Identify research gaps and promote priority studies on ecology, behaviour and genetics.
Relationship to leadership
The sub-committee reports collectively to the AsRSG Leadership Team, with Naresh Subedi and Deba Kumar Dutta serving as the designated Leadership Focal Point. It coordinates closely with the Conservation Breeding & Assisted Reproduction sub-committee on any managed or sanctuary population matters.
An introductory planning meeting was convened on 11 May 2026 among Naresh Subedi, Deba Dutta, Babu Ram Lamichhane and Amit Sharma.