In a bid to restore ecological balance and prevent human-wildlife conflict, the Jaldapara Wildlife Division has launched a large-scale grassland expansion programme over 400 hectares of forested land. The initiative is aimed at ensuring sustainable food supply for the increasing population of herbivores—especially the endangered one-horned rhinoceros—within Jaldapara National Park.
Recent wildlife surveys have recorded a notable rise in herbivore populations, including rhinos, elephants, bison, and several species of deer. With this surge, the pressure on existing food and water resources inside the reserve has grown significantly.

To meet this rising demand, the forest department has expanded its focus from a few grass varieties to cultivating twelve ecologically significant species. Dedicated nurseries are also being set up across 20 hectares to ensure year-round supply.

Diverse grass species for varied diets

The grass species being introduced include Madhuwa, Malsa, Chepti, Maundy Grass, Dhadda, Nal, Bansapatari, Bamboo Khagra, Kashia, Ekra, Purundi, and Hogla. Each species has been carefully selected based on the dietary preferences of different herbivores.

“Earlier, we focused mainly on Dhadda and Chepti, but now a much more diverse selection is being introduced,” said Navjit Dey, Assistant Wildlife Warden. “Rhinos prefer Madhuwa and Malsa, while elephants go for Chepti and Dhadda. These grasses will be planted in key zones including Chilapata, Kodalbasti, Nilpara, East and West Jaldapara, North Jaldapara, and Lankapara.”

Between 14 and 16 nurseries are being established across the reserve to cultivate and regenerate grass throughout the year. These nurseries will be vital in maintaining a steady forage supply, especially during dry seasons when food shortages often push animals toward human settlements.

Preventing conflict by providing in-forest resources

Divisional Forest Officer Praveen Kashoyan highlighted the broader ecological benefits: “The increase in herbivore numbers is a sign of successful conservation. However, it also demands that we boost in-park resources. Ensuring food and water availability inside the forest will limit animal movement towards villages and prevent potential conflict.”

Experts support this proactive step, noting that food scarcity is a major trigger for wildlife straying into human habitats. The expansion of grasslands within the protected area aims to mitigate this risk by ensuring that animals have sufficient food and shelter within the forest itself.

This initiative goes beyond simply planting grass. It represents a holistic eco-restoration effort designed to sustain a fragile yet thriving habitat. With the monsoon season approaching, plantation work is expected to accelerate, and officials are hopeful that Jaldapara’s model will inspire similar projects in wildlife reserves across India.

As conservation gains momentum, Jaldapara’s grassland expansion serves as a timely reminder that thoughtful, science-driven intervention is key to peaceful co-existence between humans and the wild.