India’s golden langur population estimated at 7,396
The Hindu
There are an estimated 7,396 golden langurs in India, the latest survey of the primate has revealed. The comprehensive population estimation of the endangered primate was carried out in two phases by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Assam Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), and Conservation Himalayas.
GUWAHATI
There are an estimated 7,396 golden langurs in India, the latest survey of the primate has revealed. The comprehensive population estimation of the endangered primate was carried out in two phases by the Primate Research Centre NE India (PRCNE), Assam Forest Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), and Conservation Himalayas.
The entire distribution range of the golden langur (Trachypithecus geei) covers the Manas Biosphere Reserve and all fragmented forests in the western part of Assam.
In the first phase during March-April 2020, the survey covered the western part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve, including Ripu Reserved Forest — a major part of it was recently upgraded to Raimona National Park – Chirang Reserve Forest, Manas Reserve Forest, and Manas National Park up to the western bank of the Manas River.
The second phase during the same months in 2021 focussed on fragmented forest habitats of golden langurs in the Bongaigaon, Kokrajhar, and Dhubri districts of western Assam. The block count method was applied for the first time to assess the abundance, spatial distribution, and densities of the golden langur populations.
“This method is considered to be relatively simple, cost-effective, and robust for arboreal and small group-living primates such as the golden langur,” H.N. Kumara, the principal scientist of SACON said.
The golden langur habitat was demarcated into 51 counting blocks, each overlaid with 50-hectare grid cells. Ten teams, each comprising one or two trained enumerators and three to four forest staff, surveyed the blocks.
Kamal Haasan urges Tamil media to avoid the term "censorship" in films, advocating for artistic freedom and recognition of certification.
Pottalurani residents boycott elections again, demanding closure of fish waste processing units impacting health and environment.
VCK leader Thirumavalavan emphasizes the need for local candidates amid concerns over past electoral losses due to outsiders.
Women teachers over 50 express discontent after Revenue Department denies blanket exemption from SIR and census duties in Karnataka.
Union Minister skips crucial NCTP meeting amid backlash over controversial Transgender Rights Bill, raising concerns within the community.
Former Minister Semmalai urges parties to limit freebies and prioritize development for Tamil Nadu's future prosperity.
New Mangalore Port will receive 72,700 tonnes of LPG next week, including a 16,714-tonne discharge on March 22.
The Centre lifts air fare caps after three months, citing stabilized operations and rising aviation fuel costs amid geopolitical tensions.
Residents of Salem South demand solutions for traffic congestion, mosquito issues, and inadequate drinking water supply ahead of elections.
Experience Guuranda in Chennai: A captivating blend of Narungga stories, dance, music, and shadow puppetry celebrating Aboriginal culture.
Police warn against downloading APK files and clicking suspicious links to avoid falling victim to cyber fraud.
CM A. Revanth Reddy reviews Bhadrachalam temple development plans, targeting completion by March 2027 while adhering to Agama Shastra.
First-half blitz helps Punjab FC drub Kerala Blasters FC