If you look at the laws in place, No, hunting is not legal in India. But there are some cases where hunting can be allowed by the government of the country, and those are some really specific cases. If you want to know more about that, just keep on reading, that’s all you need to do.
What Does The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 Say?
The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 is the legislation that prohibits hunting in India and there are no two ways about it. Just so you know, this legislation is aimed at preserving the nation’s wildlife as well as the ecosystem that supports it. All in all, the main point of this Act is that hunting, capturing, or killing wild animals is mostly illegal. The primary objective of the Act is to preserve India’s rich wildlife for the future, you know? People who break this law are heavily penalized if caught. The penalties might include having to pay hefty fines, being jailed for several years as well as even the confiscation of hunting tools. The more serious the offense, however, the punishment becomes a bit severe. In case of repeated breaches, the offender faces stricter punishments like extended jail terms, as well.
So, When is Hunting Allowed?
Even though hunting is usually banned, there are some instances when it’s allowed, but only with official sanction. For example, the hunting of wild animals that devastate farming or endanger people can be permitted through a license application. Also, a request may be granted for scientific investigations and educational activities. No matter what, however, anyone wishing to capture any species in the wild must obtain exclusive authorization from the Chief Wildlife Warden (CWW), who has the role of suggesting strategies to the government for the protection of wildlife using the most effective and up-to-date techniques, you know? Though, in particular situations, the Government may declare some species of animals as vermin. These creatures cause damage to agricultural crops or property, leading to their categorization as vermin. Some species, crops and property damage, and local environmental issues caused by monkeys, nilgai, and wild pigs among others, are also already identified in India. Just by getting this classification from the central government, it is thus possible to hunt these animals without having to look for or ask special permission. It is pretty much a green light in such a case.
Human-Wildlife Conflicts and Policy Gaps
You see, in India, as a result of urban growth and agricultural expansion, the connection between animals and humans has changed quite a bit. As people venture into areas that formerly belonged to animals, it is them embracing these places that have raised tensions. It can result in crop destruction or wild animal presence in towns and communities which can very well be dangerous. In some situations, the government allows the hunting of animal species that are causing problems for everyone, not just humans, but the ecosystem as well. So, you, me, and not even the government deny the fact that there are some cases when strict action must be taken to protect human lives, ecosystems, and resources to allow hunting.
