Why in news
- Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized ivory, leopard skin, tiger bones, and live pangolins in multi-state anti-trafficking operations.
Key terms
Section 49B
Provision in WPA 1972 explicitly prohibiting dealings in specified animal articles and ivory.
Schedule I Species
Wildlife category receiving highest legal protection with stringent penalties for violations.
CITES
International treaty regulating global trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora.
DRI
Apex anti-smuggling intelligence agency operating under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs.
What is the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972?
- Central law providing legal protection to wild animals, birds, and plants to ensure ecological and environmental security.
- Categorizes species into protective Schedules and regulates wild flora and fauna trade.
Operative Provisions and Statutory Protections
- Section 49B prohibits trading, dealing, or possession without a license of elephant ivory and wildlife derivatives.
- Leopard, Tiger, and Pangolin fall under Schedule I, attracting the maximum statutory penal penalties for hunting or trafficking.
Why it matters
- Demonstrates inter-agency enforcement where revenue intelligence agencies work alongside State Forest Departments.
- Aligns domestic wildlife enforcement with international CITES obligations against illegal wildlife trade.
Prelims facts
- Section 49B of WPA 1972 strictly bans unlicensed possession and trade of ivory.
- Leopard, Tiger, and Pangolins enjoy Schedule I statutory protection in India.
Mains discussion
- Role of intelligence agencies in curbing transnational wildlife crime networks.
Source: PIB
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