India's New Regulations on Exotic Pets: A Step Towards Wildlife Conservation
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Implementation of The Living Animal Species (Reporting and Registration) Rules, 2024 |
| Date of Issuance | February 28, 2024 |
| Issuing Authority | Union Environment Ministry, India |
| Purpose | To regulate possession and trade of exotic pets and enforce CITES provisions |
| Applicable Species | Animal species listed under CITES and Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act |
| Registration Process | Owners must register exotic pets (e.g., macaws, cockatoos, soft-shell turtles) with the state wildlife department |
| Legal Framework | Section 49 M of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act 2022 |
| Scope of Regulation | Covers possession, transfer, and reporting of birth and death of living scheduled species |
| Exclusions | Does not apply to wildlife already protected under existing legislation |
| Challenges | Monitoring exotic pet ownership, inadequate veterinary infrastructure, and trained personnel |