LUCKNOW, June 15 -- Uttar Pradesh plans to reintroduce the wild water buffalo, also called the Asiatic wild water buffalo, after a gap of 117 years since the last of the bovine were documented.

"The reintroduction of the wild water buffalo could prove to be a significant conservation initiative aimed at reviving Dudhwa's historic biological heritage. Much like the Manas region in Assam, Dudhwa's landscape features vast grasslands, wetlands, marshy habitats, and a suitable forest ecosystem, all of which have the potential to provide a favorable habitat for the wild water buffalo," said Vemuri.

The wild water buffalo is a crucial species within the grassland ecosystem. Through grazing, it helps maintain the balance of grasslands and provi...