On January 17, 2026, Assam and Madhya Pradesh signed a landmark, three-year inter-state wildlife exchange agreement to enhance biodiversity and reintroduce species.
Madhya Pradesh has proposed formal discussions with the Assam government to deepen cooperation in wildlife conservation and inter-state species exchange. The two states have already reached an in-principle understanding to reintroduce wild buffaloes in Madhya Pradesh, where the species has become extinct, and to translocate rhinoceroses to suitable habitats in the state.
In parallel, proposals are under examination to transfer tigers and crocodiles from Madhya Pradesh to Assam, responding to requests from Assam’s wildlife authorities. These plans have been submitted to the Union government for approval, reflecting a coordinated, science-based approach to species recovery, genetic diversity, and long-term conservation planning across states.
Key Points
- Inter‑state wildlife exchange agreement finalised: MP CM Mohan Yadav met Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati and finalised the pact for exchange of wild animals for conservation purposes.
- Wildlife from Assam to MP: Assam will translocate 50 wild water buffaloes in phased groups over three years.
- Along with one pair of one‑horned rhinos and three king cobras to MP.
- Reintroduction site in MP: Rhinos and cobras will be housed at Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal.
- Wild water buffaloes (Bubalus arnee), extinct in MP for over a century, will be reintroduced into their historic habitat at Kanha Tiger Reserve.
- From MP to Assam: Madhya Pradesh will provide Assam with a pair of tigers and six mugger crocodiles, strengthening biodiversity in Assam.
- Alignment with broader conservation efforts: The initiative builds on MP’s larger strategy of species restoration, following the introduction of cheetahs at Kuno National Park.
