Kaziranga National Park in Assam, is home to the one horned rhinoceros, a species that is endangered and is a highly valuable target for poachers. Officials have tried their best to curb the poaching, but have a more modern-day solution to help with the problem.

The drones will patrol Kaziranga and will can capture footage in parts that are not accessible on foot. Parimal Suklabaidya, Assam Environment and Forest Minister, told The Indian Express, “The products are expected to be received in around two months. These drones are expected to be able to fly for 4-5 hours and take high quality footage.”

The report also mentioned, NK Vasu, principal chief conservator of forest and head of forest force in Assam, saying that the drones would be customised to suit Kaziranga, and flight duration is also looking to be improved.

Rhinoceros at Kaziranga have been victims to major poaching in the past, with almost 500 rhinos being killed in the last two decades. The report from The Indian Express, mentioned that there are 2413 one-horned rhinoceros in the park, and this year, five have been victims to poaching. Officials have tightened security and have made the protection of the species a priority. A poacher was also killed this year during a gunfight, while trying to escape with the precious horn.