An inter-state wildlife exchange program between Madhya Pradesh and Assam

Current Context: On 9 January 2026, Madhya Pradesh and Assam approved an inter‑state wildlife exchange program.

• Assam will send 50 wild water buffaloes, a pair of one‑horned rhinoceroses, and three king cobras to Madhya Pradesh.
• In return, Madhya Pradesh will provide tigers and crocodiles to Assam.
• The program will reintroduce wild water buffaloes in Kanha Tiger Reserve, MP, after more than 100 years of extinction.
• It aims to strengthen biodiversity conservation and promote ecological balance between the two states.
• The initiative also sets a precedent for inter‑state cooperation in wildlife management.
• Additionally, it has potential to boost eco‑tourism and awareness about conservation.

Question:

Q.1 Which of the following species is Assam sending to Madhya Pradesh as part of the wildlife exchange program?
a) Tigers and mugger crocodiles
b) Wild water buffaloes, one-horned rhinoceroses, and king cobras
c) Elephants and river dolphins
d) Tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses

Answer: b) Assam will provide 50 wild water buffaloes, a pair of one-horned rhinoceroses, and three king cobras to Madhya Pradesh.