- A wildlife sanctuary is a designated geographical area, established as a protected zone for the conservation and preservation of wildlife.
- Its primary objective is to safeguard wildlife species from activities such as hunting, predation, competition, and poaching.
- The Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 empowers the State Government to officially designate specific regions as wildlife sanctuaries, considering their ecological, geomorphological, and natural significance.
- In the context of protected areas, India’s wildlife sanctuaries fall under the IUCN Category IV classification.
PROVISIONS FOR WILDLIFE DECLARATION
Declaration by the State Government
The State Government, through notification, may express its intent to establish a sanctuary in any area, whether inside or outside a reserve forest. This decision is based on the belief that the area possesses sufficient ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological, natural, or zoological significance for the protection, propagation, or development of wildlife or its environment.
Once the initial notification is issued, and the stipulated period for filing claims has elapsed, the State Government can issue another notification specifying the sanctuary’s boundaries. This declaration asserts that the designated area shall officially become a sanctuary as of the specified date in the notification.
Declaration by Central Government
The Central Government can declare a sanctuary through notification if it determines that an area holds adequate ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological, natural, or zoological significance for the protection, propagation, or development of wildlife or its environment.
Boundaries
The notification must precisely describe the location and boundaries of the area. In cases involving territorial waters, the limits shall be determined in consultation with the Chief Naval Hydrographer of the Central Government, ensuring the protection of local fishermen’s occupational interests.
The boundaries of a sanctuary cannot be altered without the recommendation of the National Board for Wild Life.
The Amendment Act of 1991 included territorial waters in areas designated as sanctuaries to protect offshore marine flora and fauna.
Settlement of Rights
The State Government is responsible for making alternative arrangements for fuel, fodder, and other forest produce to those affected by the declaration, in accordance with their rights.
Under the Act, a designated officer, known as the ‘Collector,’ is appointed by the State Government to investigate and determine the existence, nature, and extent of any person’s rights in or over the land within the sanctuary’s boundaries.
No rights can be acquired in the land after the sanctuary’s notification, except by succession, testamentary, or intestate.
Claim of Rights
If there is a claim to a right in or over the land, the Collector will issue an order admitting or rejecting the claim in whole or in part.
If accepted, the Collector may either exclude the land from the sanctuary’s boundaries, proceed to acquire the land or rights, or allow the continuation of any person’s right within the sanctuary, in consultation with the Chief Wild Life Warden.
Entry into Protected Area
Except for specific categories of individuals, entry or residence within the sanctuary is restricted. Permitted individuals include public servants on duty, those granted permission by the Chief Wild Life Warden, persons with rights to immovable property within the sanctuary, persons traveling on a public highway through the sanctuary, and dependents of eligible individuals.
No one is allowed to enter or reside in the sanctuary without a permit.
Grant of Permit for Entry
The Chief Wild Life Warden may grant permits for entry or residence in a sanctuary for purposes such as wildlife investigation or study, photography, scientific research, tourism, or lawful business transactions with residents.
The Chief Wild Life Warden oversees the control, management, and maintenance of all Protected Areas.
The National Board for Wild Life provides recommendations on the establishment and management of sanctuaries and restrictions on activities in those areas.
The State Board for Wild Life advises the State Government on the designation and management of protected areas.
IMPORTANCE OF WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES
Help Preserve Wildlife:
- Wildlife sanctuaries play a crucial role in protecting endangered animals by providing a natural environment for them to thrive.
- The sanctuaries offer a space where these animals can be monitored, reproduce, and grow in number, all while under strict protection.
- Researchers and biologists benefit from studying the natural behaviors and characteristics of these animals, which is facilitated by the animals being in their native habitat rather than confined in cages.
Assist in Landscape Protection:
- Wildlife sanctuaries contribute to the protection of landscapes by preventing deforestation. In a world where forests are disappearing due to urbanization, these protected areas ensure that the forests cannot be cut down.
- Instead, they are preserved, allowing natural growth.
- This also aids in the conservation of landforms such as hills, mountains, rivers, valleys, and waterfalls, shielding them from destruction, development, and pollution.
Contribute to Preservation of Culture and History:
- Many wildlife sanctuaries are home to tribes that have lived in these areas for centuries.
- The protection of these sanctuaries ensures the preservation of the culture and history of these indigenous tribes.
- By safeguarding their habitat, these tribes are protected from external threats and can continue contributing to the conservation of the forests they inhabit.
Endangered Species Protection:
- Sanctuaries provide a safe space where human activities do not interfere with nature, allowing endangered species to thrive without the threat of extinction.
- These areas serve as refuges where nature can grow and develop without human interference, providing a vital sanctuary for plant and animal species on the verge of extinction.
Biodiversity Conservation:
- Wildlife sanctuaries contribute to biodiversity conservation by preserving habitats, ecosystems, and species diversity.
- Human activities that could harm the ecosystem are minimized within these areas, making them crucial for in-situ conservation.
- By keeping the area free from human interference, sanctuaries help maintain the delicate balance of biodiversity.
Ecotourism:
- Wildlife sanctuaries promote ecotourism, allowing the public to observe animals in their natural habitat without the constraints of cages.
- This form of tourism supports wildlife conservation efforts by generating funds through entrance fees.
- The funds collected through ecotourism can be utilized for the development and maintenance of the sanctuary.
Education and Public Awareness:
- Sanctuaries serve as educational tools, helping the public learn about the importance of conservation.
- While public awareness about sanctuaries has been limited, there is a growing trend of people becoming more informed and actively participating in committees supporting sanctuary adoption.
- Celebrities also play a role in raising awareness by adopting animals and establishing charities for the benefit of sanctuaries, both in India and globally.
STEPS TAKEN FOR WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES PROTECTION
- Indian Wildlife Act (1972):
- The Indian government enacted the Indian Wildlife Act in 1972, a pivotal step in safeguarding plant and animal species. This legislation strictly prohibits hunting, poaching of animals, and ensures legal protection for their habitats.
- Establishment of Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks:
- Both the federal and state governments have taken significant strides in protecting forests and wildlife by establishing numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks across the country. These areas serve as dedicated zones for the conservation of diverse flora and fauna.
- Conservation Projects for Endangered Species:
- The government has initiated various projects targeting the conservation of endangered species, such as tigers and one-horned rhinos. These projects aim to preserve and revive populations that face the threat of extinction.
- Joint Management Programs:
- The government has introduced joint management programs involving local communities in forest management. This inclusive approach aims to actively engage communities in the protection and sustainable management of wildlife habitats.
- Wetland Conservation and Management Rules (2010):
- The central government proposed the Wetland Conservation and Management Rules in 2010 to safeguard India’s wetlands. This initiative focuses on preserving the aquatic ecosystem and provides support to states for effective wetland preservation.
- Wildlife Crime Control Bureau:
- To combat international illegal trade in animal skins and organs, the Indian government established the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. This bureau plays a crucial role in monitoring and preventing wildlife-related crimes.
- Wildlife Institute of India (WII):
- Founded in 1982 by the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, the Wildlife Institute of India is a key institution in wildlife research. It specializes in areas such as biodiversity, wildlife management, eco-development, and wildlife forensics.
- Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS):
- Established in 1883, the Bombay Natural History Society actively contributes to wildlife preservation and research. It serves as a vital organization in the ongoing efforts to protect and study India’s diverse wildlife.
- Ornithological Centre in Tamil Nadu:
- In Tamil Nadu, an ornithological center named after Dr. Salim Ali conducts extensive research on bird migration and habitats, contributing valuable insights to bird conservation.
- Strengthening Field Formations and Patrolling:
- State governments in India emphasize the importance of strengthening field formations and patrolling activities around animal preservation areas. This ensures enhanced security and monitoring to combat illegal activities.
- National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA):
- Established in December 2005, the National Tiger Conservation Authority plays a pivotal role in revitalizing the Tiger project in India. It focuses on preserving the dwindling number of tigers and protecting their ecosystems from various threats.
FAQs – Wildlife Sanctuaries and Conservation Efforts
1. What is a wildlife sanctuary, and why are they established?
A: A wildlife sanctuary is a designated geographical area set aside for the conservation and preservation of wildlife. The primary goal is to protect wildlife species from activities like hunting, predation, competition, and poaching.
2. How are wildlife sanctuaries designated in India?
A: The Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 empowers the State Government to declare specific regions as wildlife sanctuaries. The decision is based on the ecological, geomorphological, and natural significance of the area.
3. What legal provisions govern the declaration of wildlife sanctuaries?
A: The State Government, through notification, can express its intent to establish a sanctuary. The Central Government can also declare a sanctuary based on its ecological significance. The boundaries and specifics are outlined in subsequent notifications.
4. How are boundaries determined for wildlife sanctuaries?
A: The notification must precisely describe the location and boundaries of the sanctuary. In cases involving territorial waters, consultations with the Chief Naval Hydrographer are conducted to protect the occupational interests of local fishermen.
5. Can the boundaries of a sanctuary be altered?
A: The boundaries of a sanctuary cannot be changed without the recommendation of the National Board for Wild Life. The inclusion of territorial waters was introduced in 1991 to protect offshore marine flora and fauna.
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