India’s initiative to upgrade the conservation status of the Star Tortoise, the Smooth-coated Otter, and the Small-clawed Otter has been acknowledged and approved internationally. This internationally recognized upgrade was announced in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), leading these species to get listed under Appendix I now. This move will assure these creatures the highest degree of protection possible, with an all-encompassing international ban on their commercial trade.
The Policy Upgrade
This significant escalation in protective measures for these species came into effect at the Conference of Parties (COP18) held in Geneva. The approved proposal solidifies India’s commitment to combat the illegal pet trade and work towards the preservation of these endangered species. The policy upgrade mandates a complete ban on international trade of these species, hence preventing any exploitative trade practices that might hinder their population recovery.
The Threatened Status of Star Tortoise and Otters
The demand on the international pet market has been the primary reason for the decline of these species, as noted by the Deputy Director of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. As stated, “90% of the trade of Star Tortoise occurs as part of the International pet market”.
This demand primarily threatens the Star Tortoise, a species native to India, which had experienced a daunting prediction. Had the exploitation continued or expanded at the same pace, it was estimated that there would be a decline greater than 30% by 2025.
In addition to the Star Tortoise, the Smooth-coated Otter and the Small-clawed Otter are also heavily threatened by illegal trade activities. These otters are often caught and sold as pets illegally, which directly contributes to a decrease in their wild population.
Table of Key Facts
| Species | Status before upgrade | Threat | Predicted decline by 2025 (if exploitation continued) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Star Tortoise | Endangered | International pet market | 30% |
| Smooth-coated Otter | Vulnerable | Illegal pet trade | N/A |
| Small-clawed Otter | Vulnerable | Illegal pet trade | N/A |
The Impact of the Trade Ban
The approved proposal for upgrading the protective status of these species is expected to have a far-reaching impact in the fight against wildlife trafficking. By placing these species under Appendix I of CITES, India has successfully enforced an international ban on their commercial trade.
This move actively inhibits any further decline in populations of the Star Tortoise and both otter species. It boosts efforts to rehabilitate their numbers and safeguards them from extinction. With the global community’s recognition and support of this policy, there’s hope for significant progress in the conservation of these species.