Nature of offences for Wildlife Conservation in India

Abstract

The conservation of wildlife is a global priority with the survival of wildlife species largely dependent on habitats beyond political boundaries. India being situated in the tropical region harbors rich biodiversity with just 2% of the world's land area. India has a rich heritage of wildlife as well as a long history and tradition of conservation. India is home to a number of rare and threatened animal species, wildlife management in the country is essential to preserve these species. Indian mythology is equally profuse in references to our regard and love for wild animals. Different animals were associated with different Gods and were thus provided with religious sanctity and ensured conservation. In 1972, India enacted the Wildlife Protection Act and Project Tiger to safeguard crucial habitat; further federal protections were promulgated in the 1980s. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted for protection of plants and animal species. The Act provides for the protection of wild animals, birds and plants. It extends to the whole of India, except the State of Jammu and Kashmir which has its own wildlife act. The main causes of extinction of wild lives are poaching. Enumerable animals and birds are hunted for meat, skin, ivory, horns etc. ruthlessly. Hence, National Wildlife Action Plan has been adopted in 1983 for wildlife conservation. Many sanctuaries and National Parks have been established for the protection of dwindling wildlife. Numerous wildlife conservation projects have been undertaken in India, both at the government at the individual level, to protect the rich wildlife of the subcontinent. Wildlife conservation involves both protection and scientific management of wild species and their environment. Some species have become extinct due to natural causes, but the greatest danger to wildlife results from the activities of man. There is a threat to wildlife and it requires attention to save the country from losing its green heritage. Conservation of wild animals is the social responsibility of every citizen of Indian in addition to that of the Government.