Illegal Wildlife Trade and Trafficking: A Report of 58 Cases in 2023-24

India is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the majestic Indian Leopard. These big cats can be found in diverse landscapes, from the forests of the Western Ghats to the Himalayas. Unfortunately, their existence is under threat due to habitat destruction, conflicts with humans, and illegal wildlife trade. The Indian Leopard is classified under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, providing them with the highest level of legal protection in the country.

Recent reports from the 2024 National Control Bureau (NCB) show that there were 58 cases of wildlife trafficking recorded by CBIC in 2023-24, resulting in 55 arrests. In Visakhapatnam, DRI agents caught three wildlife traffickers trying to sell a leopard skin at a hotel. The seized skin was handed over to forest officials for further action. Similarly, in Amravati, a group of poachers was intercepted by DRI following a tip-off, leading to the arrest of three individuals and the confiscation of a leopard skin. In Srinagar, a daring operation by DRI resulted in the seizure of seven leopard skins and the arrest of eight individuals involved in the illegal trade.

Pangolins, known for their unique scales, are among the most trafficked mammals globally. They are targeted for their scales, which are in demand in traditional medicine and luxury markets. The population of pangolins has drastically declined, with an estimated one million poached over the past decade. Protecting these creatures is crucial to maintaining ecological balance.

Peacocks, with their vibrant plumage, hold cultural significance in India and are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Despite legal protections, the illegal trade in peacock feathers and live birds continues due to international demand. Just last February, a shipment containing a large number of peacock tail feathers and feather stems intended for illegal export to China was intercepted at Nhava Sheva Port.

Indian Tent Turtles, found in the country’s freshwater ecosystems, are also facing threats due to illegal trafficking driven by demand in Southeast Asia for exotic pets and traditional medicine. Efforts to rescue and rehabilitate these turtles are ongoing across multiple states to safeguard their survival.

The illegal trade in elephant tusks remains a global challenge, endangering elephant populations. In India, the Asiatic Elephant is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Smugglers are using sophisticated methods to traffic elephant tusks across international borders, as seen in a recent interception in New Jalpaiguri where DRI seized elephant tusks intended for trafficking into Nepal.

It is crucial to combat illegal wildlife trade and trafficking to protect India’s rich biodiversity and ensure the survival of endangered species like the Indian Leopard, pangolins, peacocks, Indian Tent Turtles, and Asiatic Elephants. Collaboration among law enforcement agencies, conservation organizations, and the public is essential in this effort.