Introduction
In 1972, Parliament enacted the Wildlife (Protection) Act. The Wildlife Act provides for state wildlife advisory boards, regulations for hunting wild animals and birds, establishment of sanctuaries and national parks, regulations for trade in wild animals, animal products and trophies, and judicially imposed penalties for violating the Act. Harming endangered species listed in Schedule 1 of the Act is prohibited throughout 41 (2003) 10 SCC 570 42 2004 (3) SCALE 90.
India. Hunting species, like those requiring special protection (Schedule II), big game (Schedule IV), is regulated through licensing. A few species classified as vermin (Schedule V), may be hunted without restrictions. Wildlife wardens and their staff administer the Act. An amendment to the Act in 1982, introduced a provision permitting the capture and transportation of wild animals for the scientific management of animal population. India is a signatory to the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES, 1976). Under this, export or import of endangered species and their products are governed by the conditions and stipulations laid down therein. Indian government has also started some conservation projects for individual endangered species like Hungal (1970), Lion (1972), Tiger (1973), Crocodiles (1974), and Brow Antlered Deer (1981), Elephant (1991-92).
