Question 36 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Environment

Question

According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law?
1. Gharial
2. Indian wild ass
3. Wild buffalo
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. 1, 2, and 3

Strategy: Determine the hunting legality for the Gharial, Indian wild ass, and Wild buffalo by referencing their protection status in the Schedules of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Key Info: The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is the primary legislation for wildlife conservation in India.

- Under this Act, hunting of animals listed in **Schedule I** and **Part II of Schedule II** is strictly prohibited, except under exceptional circumstances like a threat to human life or disability, as authorized by competent authorities.
- **Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus):** A critically endangered reptile listed in Schedule I. It is native to Indian subcontinent river systems and protected due to population decline from habitat loss and fishing activities.
- **Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur):** An endangered mammal endemic to the Rann of Kachchh, Gujarat. Its Schedule I protection status ensures hunting is strictly banned.
- **Wild buffalo (Bubalus arnee):** Listed as Endangered and found primarily in Assam, Chhattisgarh, and some central Indian states. It is protected in Schedule I due to sharp population decline from habitat destruction, interbreeding with domestic buffalo, and hunting.
- **Section 9** of the Act makes hunting any wild animal specified in Schedules I-IV illegal without prior permission, which is rarely given and only for reasons such as scientific research, education, or when an animal is identified as dangerous to human life.
- The Act also prescribes penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines. The 2002 and 2006 Amendments have further strengthened these protections.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 2 and 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: 1 and 3 only

According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law? Gharial Indian wild ass Wild buffalo Select the correct answer using the code given below:

According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law?

Gharial

Indian wild ass

Wild buffalo
Select the correct answer using the code given below: