UPSC Prelims 2017 Q35: Environment & Ecology – Environmental Governance & Legislation
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:
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Hunting under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
Section 9 bans the hunting of wild animals listed in the Schedules.
Hunting is allowed only under Sections 11 and 12.
| Animal | Schedule | Hunting banned? |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Gharial | Schedule I | Yes |
| 2. Indian wild ass | Schedule I | Yes |
| 3. Wild buffalo | Schedule I | Yes |
The legal exceptions:
| Section | When hunting is permitted |
|---|---|
| Section 11 | The Chief Wild Life Warden may permit it if the animal is dangerous to human life or diseased beyond recovery |
| Section 12 | Special permit for education, scientific research or management |
All three animals get the highest protection.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The Indian wild ass and wild buffalo are also Schedule I animals.
- (b) Incorrect. The gharial is also in Schedule I and cannot be hunted.
- (c) Incorrect. The Indian wild ass of the Rann of Kutch is also in Schedule I.
- (d) CORRECT. Gharial, Indian wild ass and wild buffalo are all in Schedule I.
Key point
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Section 9 bans hunting; Sections 11 and 12 give the only exceptions; gharial, wild ass and wild buffalo are Schedule I.
Remember
Gharial, wild ass, wild buffalo = all Schedule I.
Common mistakes
- Thinking only big cats and elephants are in Schedule I.
- Reading 'except under some provisions' as meaning the animal has weak protection.
- Forgetting that the Chief Wild Life Warden, not a local officer, permits hunting of Schedule I animals.
Exam tip
Well-known endangered Indian animals are almost always Schedule I.
Sources
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 — Sections 9, 11, 12 and Schedule I
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change — Wildlife Division