Lok Sabha passes Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021.

August 3, 2022

The Lok Sabha today passed the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021, seeking to increase the species protected under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and implement the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, CITES.
The Minister said, in the last eight years protected areas in the country have increased from 693 to 987, which includes fifty-two tiger reserves.
Noting that, the government works on the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, he said, the centre is working towards the betterment of all wildlife species alongside humans.
Replying to the concerns expressed by several members on increasing human – animal conflict, Bhupinder Yadav said plans have been drawn taking into account the socio-economic conditions of the regional ecosystem, on a case-by-case basis.
Mr Yadav said a special chapter has been added to conform to the international treaty Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
He said the bill makes amendments for better management of protected areas and an explanation so as to provide for certain permitted activities such as grazing or movement of livestock, bona fide use of drinking water by local communities, till they are provided with a better displacement plan.
He called upon people to boycott luxury products made from animals belonging to endangered species.