MEV 017: Unit 10 – Wildlife

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 UNIT 10: WILDLIFE

10.1 Introduction

Wildlife includes all non-domesticated plants, animals, and microorganisms that live in their natural habitats. It plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting food chains, and sustaining biodiversity. In India, wildlife is both biologically diverse and culturally significant, with many species considered sacred in various religious traditions.

However, wildlife faces serious threats due to habitat destruction, poaching, pollution, climate change, and human encroachment. As a result, many species are endangered or threatened with extinction. Recognizing the urgent need to protect wildlife, India has enacted several laws and implemented conservation strategies aimed at preserving its rich natural heritage.

10.2 Objectives

After going through this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of wildlife and its conservation.
  • Recognize the major threats to wildlife in India.
  • Learn about the key provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
  • Explore the role of Wildlife (Protection) Rules, 1995 in implementation.
  • Appreciate India’s efforts in wildlife protection through laws and policy frameworks.

10.3 Wildlife Conservation

Wildlife conservation refers to the practice of protecting wild species and their habitats to ensure their survival for future generations. It involves both in-situ (conservation within natural habitats) and ex-situ (conservation outside natural habitats, like in zoos) methods.

Importance of Wildlife Conservation:

  • Maintains biodiversity, which is essential for ecological stability.
  • Helps in pollination, pest control, and nutrient cycling.
  • Acts as indicators of environmental health.
  • Supports tourism, especially eco-tourism, contributing to local and national economies.
  • Has cultural, spiritual, and educational value.

Major Threats to Wildlife:

  • Habitat destruction due to deforestation, agriculture, and urbanization.
  • Poaching and illegal wildlife trade (e.g., ivory, tiger skins, rhino horns).
  • Pollution of air, water, and soil impacting species health.
  • Climate change altering ecosystems and migration patterns.
  • Human-wildlife conflict in fringe forest areas.

Conservation Strategies:

  • Creation of national parks, sanctuaries, and biosphere reserves.
  • Implementation of strict wildlife protection laws.
  • Community participation in eco-development projects.
  • Promoting awareness and education about the importance of wildlife.
  • Strengthening monitoring, patrolling, and prosecution against wildlife crimes.

10.4 The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972

The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 is one of India’s most comprehensive and significant environmental laws, providing a legal framework for the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants.

Objectives:

  • Protect wildlife species and prevent their illegal trade and hunting.
  • Establish protected areas like national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Regulate the possession and trade of wildlife products.
  • Empower authorities to enforce wildlife laws effectively.

Key Features:

  1. Schedules of Protection:
    • Schedule I & II: Highest level of protection; includes endangered species like the tiger, elephant, and peacock.
    • Schedule III & IV: Lesser protection but still safeguarded.
    • Schedule V: Animals that can be hunted (e.g., common crow, rats).
    • Schedule VI: Protection for certain plant species.
  2. Protected Areas:
    • Provides for the creation and management of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Conservation Reserves.
  3. Wildlife Crime Control:
    • Appoints Wildlife Wardens, Forest Officers, and Honorary Wildlife Wardens.
    • Empowers officers to search, seize, and arrest without a warrant.
    • Includes strict penalties and imprisonment for violations.
  4. Control over Trade and Transport:
    • Regulates the import, export, and trade of wild animals, plants, and their derivatives.
    • Makes captive breeding of certain species subject to license and regulation.
  5. Amendments:
    • The Act has been amended several times (e.g., in 2002, 2006, 2022) to strengthen enforcement, increase penalties, and cover newer species under protection.

Significance:

  • Led to the Project Tiger (1973) and later Project Elephant (1992).
  • Has significantly helped in the conservation of endangered species.
  • Establishes a legal deterrent to wildlife crimes.

10.5 The Wildlife (Protection) Rules, 1995

The Wildlife (Protection) Rules, 1995 were framed under the Wildlife (Protection) Act to guide the implementation of the Act’s provisions.

Salient Features:

  • Formation of Wildlife Advisory Boards at the state level.
  • Rules for declaring and managing protected areas like sanctuaries and parks.
  • Regulations on scientific research, photography, and tourism within protected areas.
  • Specifies procedures for licensing, captive breeding, and animal care facilities.
  • Guidelines on translocation and rehabilitation of wildlife.
  • Lays down rules for maintaining zoo animals, ensuring ethical treatment and enclosure standards.

Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB):

Although formed in 2007 (not part of 1995 rules), the WCCB is a nodal agency to coordinate wildlife crime investigations and maintain national and international intelligence networks. It assists in implementing both the Act and Rules effectively.

10.6 Let Us Sum Up

India is home to a rich and unique array of wildlife, many of which are under threat from human activities. Wildlife conservation is not just about protecting animals and plants; it's about preserving the balance of nature and ensuring the health of our ecosystems.

The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and its accompanying Rules of 1995, provide a strong legal framework for wildlife conservation. These laws, along with national-level programs and protected areas, have played a pivotal role in species recovery and habitat preservation.

However, challenges remain—especially in terms of enforcement, habitat connectivity, and community engagement. Conservation must be a collective responsibility, involving government, scientists, local communities, and individuals. Only then can India continue to protect and cherish its wild heritage for future generations.

 

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