Thane: In a significant move towards wildlife conservation, the Central Government has enforced the Live Animal Species (Reporting and Registration) Rules 2024, under the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act. Effective from 1st April 2023, these rules mandate the registration of specified exotic animal species listed in Schedule-IV Appendix-I, II, and III of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Under Section 49M of the amended Wildlife Protection Act, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and the Chief Wildlife Warden are designated as the Management Authorities responsible for overseeing the registration process. The rules necessitate all current owners of exotic animals listed under Schedule-IV to complete the online registration process via the PARIVESH-2 portal by 31st August 2024.

The registration process includes various applications such as for possession, reporting and registration of births, transfers, and deaths of these animals. Applicants are required to submit Form-1 online along with a fee of Rs. 1,000. Applications found with errors or unsatisfactory details during spot checks may face rejection, necessitating correction and re-submission.

In a directive issued by the Thane Chief Conservator of Forests, Prof. K Pradipa, owners of Schedule-IV exotic animals acquired after 29th February 2024 must apply for registration within 30 days of acquisition. Failure to comply with registration requirements by the stipulated deadlines will be considered a violation of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, punishable under Section 51(1).

Existing holders of Schedule-IV exotic animals registered prior to February 29, 2024, are also required to re-register under the new guidelines. The application process, designed to streamline wildlife management and conservation efforts, aims to ensure transparency and legal compliance in the possession and management of exotic species.

For more information and assistance, concerned individuals are urged to visit the PARIVESH-2 portal or contact their local Conservator of Forests office promptly.