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Endangered Species Protection


Neha Gupta
13 Nov, 2023

India has taken various measures for endangered species protection,


including the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, which prohibits hunting and
poaching of endangered animals. Additionally, India has established
protected areas like national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to conserve
habitats. Conservation programs, strict law enforcement, and awareness
initiatives also play a crucial role in endangered species protection in the
country.
Growing concern has been witnessed over the rise in the number of
globally threatened species. Many species are now in danger due to
development projects and an increased reliance on forests for both 2

habitation and sustenance. More than 150 species in IndiaAbhishek


are critically
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endangered and require immediate intervention to sustain their , let's talk.


populations. Many plant species are extracted from forests in a
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destructive manner. Aside from anthropogenic threats, several species


are under threat from invasive species and climate change. There has
been a growing concern about the increasing number of species that are
threatened globally. Developmental projects and increased dependence
on forests both for sustenance and livelihood have rendered many
species threatened. In the Indian context, more than 150 species are
critically endangered and require immediate intervention to sustain their
populations. Many species are destructively extracted solely from the
forests. Apart from anthropogenic threats, several species are
threatened due to invasive species and climate change.
There is growing concern about the growing number of globally
threatened species. Many species are threatened as a result of
development projects and increased reliance on forests for sustenance
and livelihood. More than 150 species in India are critically endangered
and require immediate intervention to sustain their populations. A
number of plant species are extracted from forests in a destructive
manner. Aside from anthropogenic threats, several species face
extinction as a result of invasive species and climate change.

Endangered Species
An endangered species is defined as a plant or animal that is thought to
be on the verge of extinction. In 1973, Congress passed the Endangered
Species Act (ESA). Under the ESA, the federal government is
responsible for protecting endangered species (species that have a high
probability of becoming extinct in all or a portion that is large of their
range), threatened species (species that are likely to go extinct in the
near future), and critical habitat (areas critical for the survival of
endangered or threatened species).
The Endangered Species Act encourages the protection of plant and
animal species both nationally and globally. A species is said to be
“listed” when it receives ESA protection. Many more species are being
evaluated for possible protection under the ESA and are referred to as
“candidate” species. Some of the endangered species are Rhino, Amur
Leopard, Gorilla, Sunda Tiger etc.

Measures Taken for Endangered Species


Protection
To save wild animals in the country, the Ministry of Environment,
Forests, and Climate Change has developed the third ‘National Wildlife
Action Plan’ for the years 2017 to 2031. The Plan emphasizes a
landscape approach to wildlife conservation, regardless of where it
occurs. It also prioritizes the recovery of threatened wildlife species
2
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while conserving their habitats, which include terrestrial, inland aquatic,
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coastal, and marine ecosystems.


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The following are the measures taken by the government to combat


illegal killing and poaching of wild animals:
The Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 mentions punishment for
violation of its provisions. The Act also talks about the forfeiture of any
vehicle, equipment, or weapon that is used for committing wildlife
offenses.
Law enforcement authorities in the States have strict vigilance against
poaching of wild animals.
The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau was formed for the collection of
intelligence on poaching and illegal trade in wild animals and animal
products, as well as to achieve inter-state and transboundary
coordination in wildlife law enforcement.
State/Union Territory governments have been asked to substantially
increase field formations and intensify patrolling in and around
Protected Areas.
Protected Areas, Sanctuaries, National Parks, Conservation Reserves,
and Community Reserves that cover important wildlife habitats have
been made in the country as per the clauses of the Wild Life
(Protection) Act, 1972, for the conservation of wild animals and their
habitats.
The Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of
Wildlife Habitats,’ ‘Project Tiger,’ and ‘Project Elephant’ provide
financial assistance to state/union territory governments for better
wildlife protection and habitat improvement.

Causes of Endangered Wildlife Species


The following are the causes of endangered wildlife species:
Habitat Loss And Fragmentation
Rapid urbanization, agricultural expansion, and industrial development
lead to loss and fragmentation of natural habitats. Deforestation for
timber, agriculture, and infrastructure projects destroys the homes of
many wildlife species.
Human Activities
Native species can be eliminated directly by human activities such as 2
agricultural reduction, industrial development, and housing Hey there! I am
development. Human activities have significantly contributed to the
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endangerment of wildlife species in India. Deforestation, habitat


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destruction, and urbanization have led to the loss of natural habitats,


forcing many species to the brink of extinction.
Poaching And Illegal Wildlife Trade
Poaching for body parts, skins, and organs for traditional medicine or
the illegal pet trade remains a significant threat. India is home to species
like tigers and elephants, which are targeted by poachers. Poaching and
illegal wildlife trade are major contributors to the endangerment of
wildlife species. These activities involve the illegal hunting, capturing,
and trading of animals and their body parts. Many endangered species
are targeted for their valuable parts, such as ivory, skins, and bones,
driving them closer to extinction.
Climate Change
Changes in temperature and weather patterns affect wildlife habitats.
Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme
weather events can lead to habitat loss, food scarcity, and altered
migration routes.

Endangered Species Protection in India


Endangered species protection in India requires a comprehensive
approach involving government initiatives, community involvement, and
public awareness. Here are some key strategies for endangered species
protection:
Habitat Conservation
Preserve and restore natural habitats through national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries, and protected areas. Implement sustainable forest
management practices to maintain biodiversity. The Wildlife Protection
Act of 1972 provides legal safeguards for endangered species and their
habitats by regulating hunting and trade. The Indian government and
conservation organizations work on community-based conservation
programs, promoting sustainable practices that benefit both local
communities and wildlife.
Anti-Poaching Measures
Invest in training and equipping forest rangers and law enforcement
agencies to combat poaching effectively. Use modern technology like
drones and camera traps for surveillance.
Collaboration With NGOs
Partner with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international
conservation agencies to leverage expertise, funding, and resources for 2

conservation projects. Some prominent NGOs involved inAbhishek


thisHeycause
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include: , let's talk.

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Wildlife Trust of India (WTI): WTI focuses on wildlife conservation


and has various projects aimed at protecting endangered species
across India.
Wildlife SOS: This organization is known for its efforts to rescue and
rehabilitate wildlife, including endangered species like elephants,
bears, and big cats.
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) India: WWF India works on
diverse conservation projects, including initiatives related to
endangered species and their habitats.
Policy Development
Development and implementation of policies that promote sustainable
development while ensuring the protection of wildlife and their habitats.
Encourage eco-friendly practices and discourage activities harmful to
the environment.
India has implemented several policies and laws to address the
conservation of endangered species:
Wildlife Protection Act (1972): This act serves as the primary legal
framework for wildlife conservation in India. It prohibits hunting,
poaching, and trade of endangered species, providing essential
protection to wildlife.
Project Tiger: Launched in 1973, Project Tiger aims to protect the
Bengal tiger and its habitats. It has been instrumental in the
conservation of this endangered species.
Project Elephant: Started in 1992, this project focuses on elephant
conservation, addressing issues like habitat protection and human-
elephant conflict mitigation.
National Biodiversity Action Plan (2008): This plan outlines
strategies and actions for biodiversity conservation, including
efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats.

Conserving Endangered Species


Currently, a variety of ways are there to protect species, such as
creating protected areas, reintroducing animals, captive breeding,
putting conservation laws into effect, and educating the public. In
addition to benefiting other related species, protected areasHey
alsothere! I am 2

effectively save species and their habitats. Both new andAbhishek


existing areas
, let's talk.
ought to be added to the list of areas designated for protection. Zoos
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and aquariums play a major role in conservation efforts by upholding


captive populations. They coordinate breeding programs to maintain
wholesome populations at various levels of cooperation. People can also
help by donating to conservation organizations, cutting back on their
carbon footprint, and choosing sustainable lifestyle options.

Evaluation Criteria for Endangered Species


As per National Wildlife Federation the following points must be
considered when determining whether to include a species on the
Endangered Species List or not:
Has a large segment of the essential habitat for this species been
destroyed or severely damaged?
Has the species been over-consumed by scientific, commercial,
recreational, or educational uses?
Is the species threatened by disease or predation?
Do the laws and regulations in place now provide enough protection
for the species?
Are there any other man-made factors threatening the long-term
survival of the species?

Regulatory Framework for Endangered Species


Protection
There are certain Regulations made for Endangered Species Protection.
Some of them are-
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
The Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 establishes a legal framework for
the conservation of various wild animals and plant species, managing
their habitats, and regulation and controlling trade in plants and wild
animals and products derived from them. The act also includes
schedules of the plants and animals that are subject to different levels of
government protection and oversight.
Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022
The act amends the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 by increasing
the number of species protected under the law.
The Centre is to appoint a Chief Wild Life Warden who will process
applications for captive breeding or artificial propagationHeyof there!
any I am 2

scheduled specimen. Abhishek , let's talk.

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The Amended Act specifies prison terms and fines for violations of
the Act’s provisions. These fines are increased by the Act. The act
also strengthens the penalties for violating the Act’s provisions. The
maximum fine for ‘general violations’ has been raised from Rs
twenty-five thousand to Rs one lakh. The minimum fine for animals
under special protection has been raised from Rs. 10,000 to Rs.
25,000.
CITES (Convention On International Trade In Endangered
Species Of Wild Fauna And Flora)
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora, also known as the Washington Convention, was signed
on March 3, 1973, in Washington, D.C., and went into effect on July 1,
1975.
CITES talks about how international trade in wild animals and plants is
legal, sustainable, and traceable and does not threaten the survival of
the species in the wild. It reflects all three dimensions of sustainable
development – social, economic, and ecological – and contributes to the
achievement of Sustainable Development Goals through People, Planet,
Prosperity, and Partnership.
Department Of Endangered Species Management
The Department of Endangered Species Management (ESM) works to
conserve rare and endangered species in India through status surveys,
research, monitoring, the development of conservation action plans, and
advocacy as per Wildlife Institute of India.

Need for Endangered Species Protection


Once they’re gone, they’re gone for good, and there’s no turning back.
The loss of even one species can have disastrous consequences for the
rest of the ecosystem because the effects are felt throughout the food
chain. The benefits of preservation of threatened and endangered
species are invaluable, ranging from providing cures for deadly diseases
to maintain natural ecosystems and improving overall quality of life.

Conclusion
India has made significant strides in protecting endangered species
through legislation, protected areas, conservation efforts, and public
awareness campaigns. The formation of wildlife sanctuaries and national
parks, in conjunction with the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972,Hey
provides
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am
2

strong foundation for preserving endangered species andAbhishek


their , let's talk.
environments. Continued commitment to enforcing these laws, engaging
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in conservation initiatives, and raising awareness among the public are


vital for ensuring the long-term survival of endangered species in India.

FAQs
What is an endangered species? +
Why is it important to protect endangered species? +
What organizations are involved in endangered species +
protection?

How are endangered species protected legally? +


What is habitat conservation, and why is it essential for protecting
endangered species? +
How do zoos and conservation programs help endangered +
species?

What role do individuals play in protecting endangered species? +


What are the challenges in endangered species protection? +
How is the Indian government working to protect endangered +
species?
Read our Article: Overview Of India’s Biodiversity And Climate Goals
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