SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 40

Solution: The correct answer is (C) The number of white rhinos has increased, while Indian rhino population remained stable.
Explanation:
☛ The State of the Rhino 2024 report was released by the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) ahead of World Rhino Day.
☛ According to the report, the population of White rhinos increased to approximately 17,465, marking a notable recovery due to protection efforts.
☛ The population of the Greater one-horned rhino (Indian rhino) remained stable at an estimated 4,014 individuals across India and Nepal.
☛ Contrary to Option A, rhino poaching in Africa actually increased by about 4% from 2022 to 2023.
☛ Not all rhino species are critically endangered; for instance, the White rhino is classified as Near Threatened and the Greater one-horned rhino is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Five Rhino Species: There are five living species of rhinos globally—White rhino and Black rhino (Africa), and Greater one-horned rhino, Javan rhino, and Sumatran rhino (Asia).
☛ Javan and Sumatran Rhinos: Both species remain Critically Endangered with populations estimated at fewer than 50 and around 34–47 respectively.
☛ Kaziranga National Park: Located in Assam, India, it hosts roughly two-thirds of the world's Greater one-horned rhino population.
☛ World Rhino Day: Observed annually on September 22 to spread awareness for the conservation of all five rhino species.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ When is World Rhino Day celebrated globally? → September 22
☛ What is the IUCN Red List status of the Greater one-horned rhino? → Vulnerable
☛ Which Indian national park has the highest population of one-horned rhinos? → Kaziranga National Park (Assam)
☛ Which organisation releases the annual 'State of the Rhino' report? → International Rhino Foundation (IRF)
☛ Which two Asian rhino species are categorized as Critically Endangered? → Javan rhino and Sumatran rhino