gs1medium
In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply?
- A.It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.
- B.It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection; and now it is impossible to prevent its extinction.
- C.It is endemic to a particular region of India.
- D.Both (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context.
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: A. It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.
Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, provides the highest degree of protection to endangered species. The penalties for their violation are the most stringent. Species listed in Schedule I, such as tigers and rhinoceroses, are afforded the maximum legal protection, which also extends to tortoises declared under this schedule. This implies strict prohibitions on their hunting, trade, and habitat destruction.
Source: UPSC gs1 2017