GUWAHATI: Indian Oil adopted six one-horned rhinos at the Assam State Zoo at a ceremony within the premises of the zoo here on Monday.
SM Vaidya, Chairman, Indian Oil presented a cheque of Rs 6 lakh towards adoption of six rhinos for one year to Dr Priyasa Saikia, ACF, Assam State Zoo in the presence of DS Nanaware, Director (Pipelines), Indian Oil, SP Singh, Executive Director & Refinery Head, Guwahati Refinery, G Ramesh, Executive Director & State Head, Indian Oil AOD State Office and select officials of Assam State Zoo & Indian Oil.
Talking about adopting the one-horned rhino as the company's mascot, Vaidya said, "Indian Oil's relationship with Assam is old and profound. Oil was first found in the country in India in Digboi, Assam after which Indian Oil's Digboi Refinery was also established in Assam in 1901. Also, three of Indian Oil's refineries are in Assam. So, to honour this relationship, the rhino was adapted as Indian Oil's mascot."
He also said, "Being a responsible corporate, the responsibility of the company doesn't end at adopting the rhino as a mascot, but also contribute to the conservation of the one-horned rhino. So, we are adopting six rhinos today and we hope that it helps in rhino conservation and rehabilitation.
Vaidya also talked about the Indian Oil's effort in supporting conservation of other animals like the cheetah and advised the zoo to involve corporates in the conservation process, which will help them with funds which will help the zoo implement the many plans that they have to improve the zoo to a world-class one. He also expressed his appreciation for the zoo staff for excellent upkeep and care of the rhinos currently under rehabilitation in the zoo.
Thanking Indian Oil for its support in helping conserve the rhinos, Saikia said that it is a matter of immense pride that the one-horned rhino has been adopted by Indian Oil as its mascot as it will adorn all Indian Oil locations, be it petrol pumps or LPG distributorships across the country, and will help spread the awareness message among people.
Indian Oil has made significant efforts in the direction of conserving the Great One-horned Rhino and has committed itself to the cause by creating awareness about its conservation.
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