Golden Langurs Released in Assam's Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

A conservation success story as rescued endangered primates return to the wild.

On 25 June 2026, seven endangered Golden Langurs were released into Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park in Assam after rescue, rehabilitation, and scientific assessment. The animals had been rescued on 19 June 2026 from wildlife traffickers in Chirang district by the Assam Police Special Task Force, with nine suspected traffickers (including one Bangladeshi national) arrested.

Golden Langur: Species Profile

The Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei) is a primate protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 — the highest level of legal protection in India. Its natural range is restricted to Western Assam and the foothills of southern Bhutan, and it ranks among the world's most endangered primates.

Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

This is Assam's newest national park, covering 316 sq km across the Chirang and Kokrajhar districts in the Bodoland Territorial Region. It forms part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve in Assam.

Rescue and Rehabilitation

The Assam Forest Department conducted monitored rehabilitation before releasing the langurs. Eight Golden Langurs were rescued in the operation; one died despite medical treatment and rehabilitation efforts.

Important Facts for Exams

  • The Golden Langur is endemic to Western Assam and southern Bhutan.
  • Its scientific name is Trachypithecus geei.
  • Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 gives the highest protection.
  • Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park is part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve.

📝 Practice MCQs

1. What is the scientific name of the Golden Langur?

[A] Trachypithecus geei

[B] Semnopithecus entellus

[C] Macaca mulatta

[D] Presbytis johnii

Answer: [A] Trachypithecus geei

2. The Golden Langurs were released into which national park?

[A] Kaziranga National Park

[B] Manas National Park

[C] Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

[D] Dibru-Saikhowa National Park

Answer: [C] Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park

3. Under which Schedule of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is the Golden Langur protected?

[A] Schedule I

[B] Schedule II

[C] Schedule III

[D] Schedule IV

Answer: [A] Schedule I

4. Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park forms part of which UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve?

[A] Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

[B] Manas Biosphere Reserve

[C] Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve

[D] Nokrek Biosphere Reserve

Answer: [B] Manas Biosphere Reserve

5. The Golden Langur's natural range is restricted to Western Assam and the foothills of which country?

[A] Nepal

[B] Bhutan

[C] Myanmar

[D] Bangladesh

Answer: [B] Bhutan