Wildlife Protection Act 1972 — Set 13

Correct Answer: B. Chief Wildlife Warden

The Chief Wildlife Warden issues certificates of ownership for elephants legally held in captivity under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. All captive elephants in India must be registered and ownership certificates must be obtained. Unauthorized possession of an elephant is a cognizable offence under the Act.

Correct Answer: B. Manipur

The Sangai (Brow-antlered Deer) is the state animal of Manipur. It lives exclusively in the floating phumdi grasslands of Keibul Lamjao National Park on Loktak Lake, making it one of the most uniquely adapted mammals in the world. The Sangai is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.

Correct Answer: B. 1975

Project Crocodile was launched in India in 1975 in collaboration with UNDP and FAO to conserve all three species of Indian crocodilians — the Mugger, Saltwater Crocodile, and Gharial. The project established breeding centres and reintroduction programmes. It has been one of India's most successful wildlife conservation programmes, especially for the Saltwater Crocodile.

Correct Answer: B. Polluting industries, mining, and large construction activities

Eco-Sensitive Zones around protected areas restrict activities like polluting industries, mining, stone quarrying, and major construction projects. They also regulate tourism infrastructure, highways, and commercial establishments. However, small-scale sustainable agriculture, traditional community practices, and essential infrastructure like hospitals and schools are typically not banned in ESZs.

Correct Answer: C. Schedule III and IV

Schedules III and IV of the original Wildlife Protection Act 1972 listed lesser-known wild animals offering moderate protection. The penalties for offences relating to these species were less severe than those for Schedule I and II species. The 2022 Amendment merged these two schedules into a single schedule to simplify the framework.

Correct Answer: B. Wildlife Protection Act Schedule VI

The Khejri tree (Prosopis cineraria), sacred to the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan, is listed under Schedule VI of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 as a protected plant. Cutting or damaging it is a legal offence. The Bishnoi community's protection of Khejri trees famously led to the Chipko inspiration movement.

Correct Answer: C. Enhanced minimum imprisonment of 3 years extending to 7 years with higher fines

For repeat offenders under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, especially for Schedule I and II species, the minimum imprisonment is 3 years extending to 7 years and fines are enhanced. The 2002 Amendment introduced these stronger repeat-offender penalties. This escalation aims to deter recidivism in wildlife crime.

Correct Answer: B. Wildlife Protection Act 1972

The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) was established under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 through the 2006 Amendment. It oversees Project Tiger and approves management plans for all Tiger Reserves in India. NTCA's chairperson is the Minister of Environment and it has both policy and regulatory functions.

Correct Answer: C. Schedule I

The Nilgiri Langur (Semnopithecus johnii) and the Lion-tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus) are both endemic to the Western Ghats and are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. The Lion-tailed Macaque is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Both species face threats from habitat fragmentation and electrocution on power lines.

Correct Answer: B. Any dead animal or part including skin, bones, feathers, shells

Under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, a 'trophy' is defined as any dead animal or part thereof including skins, bones, feathers, claws, horns, shells, and any article made from them. Possession of a trophy of a Schedule I species without a valid licence is a punishable offence. This definition prevents ivory, tiger skin, and similar items from being traded as 'antiques' or decorations.