Pobitora was declared a reserve forest in 1971 and later designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1987, primarily to protect the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. The area has a history of being a grazing ground for local communities. However, due to the growing need for rhino conservation, it was converted into a protected area. The sanctuary has faced challenges like poaching and habitat encroachment, but continuous efforts by the forest department and conservation organizations have helped maintain and grow the rhino population. Today, Pobitora stands as a successful example of rhino conservation in India.