The Indian state of Assam is characterised by cultural diversity and a great wealth of fauna and flora. Owing to its location in the biodiversity hotspot of the Indo-Burma region, it boasts a high number of endemic species and large populations of well-known and threatened mammals such as the Asian elephant, the tiger, the wild water buffalo and the greater one-horned or Indian rhino. Kaziranga National Park is home to the largest population of Indian rhinos, with around 2,000 individuals, and the state government of Assam is strongly committed to the conservation of these iconic animals.

Together with partner institutions in Germany and Assam, the CRF will carry out a project to research and protect Indian rhinos and their habitat in the Manas National Park. To this end, the CRF is planning both scientific research on population development and genetic diversity as well as specific conservation measures such as combating poaching and preserving the rhinos' habitat. In addition, the reduction of invasive plant species is on the agenda of both research and practical nature conservation. An integral part of the work will be measures to improve the economic and social prospects of the local population, for example through the creation of jobs and through education and communication initiatives, for example short films and brochures, in schools and in villages.