The Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam’s Sonitpur district is witnessing the return of elephants after efforts to remove forest encroachments and restore the habitat. The sanctuary was recently highlighted during the 138th episode of Mann Ki Baat, where it was noted that elephants had moved away from the area as human interference and encroachment increased.

Around three years ago, encroached forest land was cleared, followed by efforts to improve the green cover through afforestation. These measures have helped restore the ecological conditions of the sanctuary and created a more suitable habitat for elephants.

Spread across 220 square kilometres in the foothills of the Himalayas, Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified on September 4, 1998. The 2024 elephant population estimation recorded 140 elephants within the sanctuary.

Elephant herds are now being spotted in areas where they had not been seen for several years. The return of the animals highlights the role of habitat restoration, removal of encroachments and afforestation in supporting wildlife conservation and improving the ecological balance of the sanctuary.