The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is a significant piece of legislation in India that has contributed largely toward conserving the diverse wildlife species within the country. The Act, which recently completed its 51st year since inception, has played a central role in protecting an array of endangered species.
About Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 provides a robust legal framework designed to protect various species of wild fauna and flora, manage their habitats, and regulate the trade of wild animals and plants along with products derived from them. The Act also includes schedules of plants and animals that are granted different levels of protection and monitoring by the government. Furthermore, this Act has facilitated India’s entry into the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Previously, the region of Jammu and Kashmir was not governed by the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. However, due to recent political reorganization, the Indian Wildlife Protection Act now applies to this region as well.
Constitutional Provisions for the Wildlife Act
The 42nd Amendment Act, 1976 shifted the mandate for Forests and Protection of Wild Animals and Birds from State to Concurrent List. Additionally, Article 51 A (g) of the Constitution identifies it as a fundamental duty of each citizen to protect and enhance the natural environment which includes forests and wildlife. Further, Article 48 A, found within the Directive Principles of State policy, mandates the State to strive to safeguard the country’s environment, forests, and wildlife.
Schedules under the Act
The Act lists six schedules which provide different degrees of protection to the species mentioned under them. They range from Schedule I, which provides stringent protection for endangered species, to Schedule V and VI, which regulates cultivation and trade of specific plant species and controls possession, sale, and transportation.
Bodies Constituted under the Act
The Act also led to the establishment of several bodies responsible for overseeing wildlife-related matters. These include the National Board for Wildlife, State Board for Wildlife, Central Zoo Authority, National Tiger Conservation Authority, and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau.
Protected Areas Under the Act
The Act defines five types of protected areas: Sanctuary, National Parks, Conservation Reserves, Community Reserves and Tiger Reserves.
Important Amendments in the Act
Over the years, the Act has been amended multiple times. Most notable amendments include the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act of 1991 which strengthened penalties and fines for wildlife crimes and introduced provisions for protecting endangered species. Furthermore, the latest amendment in 2022 proposes to increase the species protected under the law and streamline the implementation of CITES.
Initiatives of Wildlife Development Under WPA, 1972
Several initiatives have been undertaken as per the provisions of WPA, 1972. These include Project Tiger Conservation launched in 1973, and Project Elephant of 1992. Both these projects aim to conserve the population of their respective target species. Additionally, the concept of wildlife corridors has been implemented to facilitate free movement of animals without disrupting human settlements.
Challenges Faced by WPA, 1972
Despite the success attributable to the WPA, 1972, it faces several challenges – ranging from lack of awareness to climate change. Human-wildlife conflict is on the rise due to increasing human population and encroachment onto wildlife habitats. There is also a significant surge in illegal wildlife trade, leading to poaching and unauthorized selling of wildlife products. Other challenges include inadequate penalties for wildlife crimes, lack of coordination between various government agencies, and insufficient community participation in conservation efforts.
Conclusion
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 has had a majorly positive impact on wildlife conservation in India. However, multiple challenges still persist which require considerable effort from the government, civil society, and public at large. Measures such as strict enforcement, enhanced community participation, and awareness campaigns can play crucial roles in safeguarding India’s rich wildlife heritage.
