India’s Supreme Court has significantly expanded the jurisdiction and powers of a high-profile committee steered by former Justice Deepak Verma. This committee now has the authority to conduct necessary evaluations regarding the import, transfer, rescue, and rehabilitation of wild animals, including those in captivity, across India. Earlier, the committee was only responsible for wildlife concerns in Tripura and Gujarat.
Significant Changes to Committee’s Jurisdiction
The powers of this committee now encompass the entirety of India. State Chief Wildlife Wardens have been included as part of the committee. Present and future complaints relating to the welfare of wild animals will be addressed by this team. The committee is also authorised to consider requests for approval, dispute, or grievances from rescue centres or zoos concerning the treatment of wild animals. Furthermore, the Supreme Court has ordered Central and State authorities to report any seizure of wild animals or abandonment incidents in captivity to the committee.
Key Concerns Associated with Captive Wild Animals in India
Concerns abound regarding the conditions under which wild animals are kept in captivity in India. Numerous facilities lack the resources to provide adequate care for captive animals. Many zoo animals suffer from food poisoning, human-animal conflict, and a lack of veterinary care for diseases like hepatitis and tick fever. For instance, the Delhi Zoo has lost approximately 450 animals, including tigers and lions, due to health reasons.
Illegal Trade: India’s wild animal population is threatened not only by captivity conditions but also by rampant illegal trade. Many animals are captured and sold for their fur or skin, or for use in traditional medicine. As per the report, pangolins and Indian star tortoises are among the creatures often illegally traded for their meat, skin, or as pets, contributing to declining populations.
Inadequate Rehabilitation Processes
Even when rescued, many animals are not adequately rehabilitated before being returned to the wild. This poses significant survival and adaptation challenges for these creatures when they return to their natural habitats.
Path Forward
Improving regulations: The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, while instrumental in protecting Indian wildlife, needs bolstering and modernising to cope with present day challenges.
Protecting Natural Habitats: Safeguarding animal habitats is critical for their survival, suggesting the necessity to counter deforestation, poaching, and other threats.
Multisectoral Collaboration: Collaboration between government entities, NGOs, and other stakeholders could vastly improve captive wild animal welfare in India. By working together, they can identify and put into action effective solutions to the problems these animals face.