A significant number of people have a passion for raising animals of different species, and some even engage in commercial activities related to them. However, now it will be necessary for those keeping exotic animals at home and engaging in their trade to adhere to certain rules.
Animal lovers often have various types of animals, including domestic pets like dogs and cats. Some people also prefer to keep exotic birds such as macaws, lovebirds, African grey parrots, iguanas, and monitor lizards in their homes. However, the recent news may come as a surprise to those who trade in these exotic creatures and keep them as pets. The government has issued a directive stating that keeping these species of animals without registration will be considered an offense.
Registration Becomes Mandatory
For individuals involved in the trade of these exotic animals or keeping them at home, it is now mandatory to register them under Schedule 4 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Those who violate the rules by keeping these animals without registration may face legal action under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has mandated registration through the Environment 2.0 portal by August 31st.
Reasoning Behind the Decision
Under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, forest departments have been given the authority to take action against those illegally keeping exotic animals, as such instances have occurred in the past. While these cases were previously only dealt with as economic offenses, now forest departments can directly register cases under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Registration Process
To register these exotic animals, owners must provide information regarding the species they are keeping. Keeping such animals without registration at home or at business premises will be considered illegal. If an animal dies or if there is a birth of another animal, the authorities must be notified within 24 hours. If an animal is being relocated from one place to another, the nearest forest department office must be informed within 24 hours. Cross-breeding of exotic species with indigenous species has also been declared illegal.
Owners and operators of breeding centers are also subject to regulations. They must provide information about cross-breeding during the verification process. Failure to comply with the regulations during verification may result in closure by the authorities. The deadline for verification and registration of these exotic animals is August 31st.
The decision to mandate registration for exotic animals is aimed at conservation efforts and ensuring that their trade and possession are conducted legally. It is essential for bird and animal enthusiasts to adhere to these regulations to avoid legal consequences and contribute to the protection of wildlife.