Golden Langurs Released in Assam’s Sikhna Jwhwlao Park

Seven endangered Golden Langurs were released into Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park in Assam on 25 June 2026 after rescue, rehabilitation, and scientific assessment. The animals were rescued on 19 June 2026 from wildlife traffickers in Chirang district by the Assam Police Special Task Force, and nine suspected traffickers, including one Bangladeshi national, were arrested during the operation.

Golden Langur: Species Profile

The Golden Langur is scientifically known as Trachypithecus geei. It is a primate species protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides the highest level of legal protection for wildlife in India. The species has a restricted natural range in Western Assam and the foothills of southern Bhutan. It is listed among the world’s most endangered primates and is associated with forest habitats in the Bodoland Territorial Region.

Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park is Assam’s newest national park. It covers 316 square kilometres across Chirang and Kokrajhar districts in the Bodoland Territorial Region. The park forms part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve in Assam. National parks in India are notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and they provide protected habitats for wild species.

Wildlife Protection and Rehabilitation

The Assam Forest Department used monitored rehabilitation before releasing the langurs into the park. Wildlife rescue operations in India often involve seizure, veterinary care, and release into suitable protected habitats after assessment. Eight Golden Langurs were rescued in the operation, and one died despite medical treatment and rehabilitation efforts. Such cases are recorded during anti-trafficking actions involving protected species under Indian wildlife law.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Golden Langur is endemic to a limited region of Western Assam and southern Bhutan.
• Trachypithecus geei is the scientific name of the Golden Langur.
• Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, gives the highest protection to listed species in India.
• Manas Biosphere Reserve is linked with protected forest landscapes in Assam.

Protected Area Context

Assam has several protected areas under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park lies in the Bodoland Territorial Region and adds to the protected habitat network of western Assam.