The Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Bill of 2022 marks a significant stride in the ongoing endeavor to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity. In response to escalating concerns about the rapid decline of wildlife populations and the increasing threats posed by habitat destruction, poaching, and trafficking, this legislative proposal seeks to strengthen existing conservation measures. By amending and enhancing the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the bill aims to provide more robust legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms to combat illicit activities, preserve endangered species, and promote sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife. As the global community recognizes the urgent need for concerted action to mitigate the ecological crisis, this bill emerges as a crucial instrument in fostering responsible stewardship of our natural heritage for generations to come.
PURPOSE OF THE BILL
- Safeguarding Endangered Species: The primary aim of the bill is to strengthen penalties for the illegal wildlife trade.
- Improved Administration of Protected Areas: The bill allows for specific authorized activities such as grazing or the movement of livestock, along with legitimate use of drinking and household water by local communities within protected areas.
- Preservation of Forest Lands: This aspect is crucial as the bill integrates the protection of the rights of long-standing inhabitants in those areas.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT
- Addition of a New Schedule: The proposed amendment introduces a new schedule for species listed in the Appendices under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
- Establishment of Standing Committee: Section 6 has been amended to establish a Standing Committee, delegated with powers and duties by the State Board for Wildlife.
- Amendment of Section 43: Section 43 of the act, which previously allowed the use of elephants for ‘religious or any other purposes,’ has been amended.
- Introduction of Section 49E: A new section, 49E, has been inserted to empower the Central government to appoint a Management Authority.
- Appointment of Scientific Authority: The amendment allows the Central Government to appoint a Scientific Authority to provide guidance on matters related to the impact on the survival of specimens being traded.
- Regulation of Invasive Species: The Bill grants the Central government the authority to regulate and halt the import, trade, or possession of invasive plant or animal alien species.
- Enhanced Penalties: The proposed amendments include an increase in penalties for violations of the Act:
For ‘General violations,’ the maximum fine is raised from 25,000 to 1 lakh.
In the case of Specially protected animals, the minimum fine, initially set at Rs. 10,000, is enhanced to Rs. 25,000.
CONCERNS ASSOCIATED WITH BILL
- Vague Terminology: The phrase “any other purpose” in the Bill is considered vague and has the potential to encourage commercial trade of elephants, raising concerns about the clarity of its intended scope.
- Unaddressed Issues: The Bill does not adequately address certain crucial issues such as Human-Wildlife conflict and the implementation of Eco-sensitive zone rules, leading to concerns about the comprehensive coverage of wildlife protection measures.
- Incomplete Species Listing: As per the report from the Parliamentary Standing Committee, the species listed in all three schedules of the Bill are deemed incomplete, pointing towards potential gaps and inadequacies in the coverage of protected species.
- Shortage of Experts: The shortage of scientists, botanists, and biologists involved in the process raises concerns about the need for greater inclusion of expertise to expedite the comprehensive listing of all existing wildlife species.
WAY FORWARD FOR WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
- Stringent Law Enforcement: It is imperative to ensure the strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws. Authorities should actively prosecute and penalize those engaged in illegal activities, fostering a deterrent against wildlife offenses.
- Corporate Accountability: Businesses, especially those in real estate, need to adhere rigorously to wildlife protection laws. Corporate responsibility is crucial in maintaining a balance between economic interests and the preservation of wildlife habitats.
- Protection of Nicobar Jungles: Urgent attention is required to address the complete degradation and removal of Nicobar jungles for corporate interests. Sustainable and ecologically responsible practices must be promoted to prevent irreversible damage to valuable ecosystems.
- Corporate Responsibility for Wildlife Protection: Acknowledging that wildlife is often threatened by corporate activities, it is essential for corporations to adopt ethical practices and contribute to conservation efforts. Responsible business conduct can mitigate the adverse impacts on wildlife.
- Holistic Approach: Mere reliance on regulations and technological solutions is insufficient. Local communities play a crucial role in wildlife conservation. It is essential to raise awareness and educate communities about the value of their engagement in preserving their natural surroundings.
- Community Engagement: Empowering local communities with knowledge and involving them in conservation efforts fosters a sense of ownership. Sustainable practices, community-based conservation initiatives, and ensuring their participation in decision-making processes contribute significantly to wildlife protection.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching comprehensive public awareness campaigns can enhance understanding and appreciation for wildlife conservation. Education and outreach efforts should target both urban and rural populations to foster a broader understanding of the importance of wildlife.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Governments, NGOs, corporations, and local communities should collaborate in a coordinated manner to address wildlife conservation challenges. Partnerships can leverage diverse resources and expertise for effective, sustainable conservation initiatives.
FAQs – Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Bill 2022
Q1: What is the primary objective of the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Bill 2022?
A1: The primary aim of the bill is to strengthen penalties for the illegal wildlife trade, safeguarding endangered species. Additionally, it aims to improve the administration of protected areas and preserve forest lands.
Q2: How does the bill address the protection of forest lands?
A2: The bill integrates the protection of the rights of long-standing inhabitants in forest areas, ensuring a balanced approach to conservation.
Q3: What new addition is proposed under the amendments?
A3: The amendments introduce a new schedule for species listed in the Appendices under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Q4: What changes are made regarding the use of elephants?
A4: Section 43 of the act, which permitted the use of elephants for ‘religious or any other purposes,’ has been amended.
Q5: What is the significance of the new Section 49E?
A5: The newly inserted Section 49E empowers the Central government to appoint a Management Authority.
Q6: How does the amendment address the impact on traded specimens?
A6: The Central Government can now appoint a Scientific Authority to provide guidance on matters related to the impact on the survival of specimens being traded.
Q7: Can the Central government regulate invasive species under the proposed amendments?
A7: Yes, the bill grants the Central government the authority to regulate and halt the import, trade, or possession of invasive plant or animal alien species.
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