All questions of Schedule Animals Of WPA 1972 for UPSC CSE Exam

Level of Protection for Animals listed under Schedule 4 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is a comprehensive legislation that provides for the protection of wildlife in India. The Act has various schedules that list different species of animals and their level of protection. Schedule 4 of the Act lists species that are considered to be endangered and provides for their protection.

The level of protection provided to animals listed under Schedule 4 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is low. This means that while the animals are protected, the level of protection provided is not as stringent as that provided to animals listed under Schedule 1 or 2 of the Act.

Reasons for Low Protection

There are several reasons for the low level of protection provided to animals listed under Schedule 4 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Some of these include:

1. Lack of research: There is often a lack of research on the species listed under Schedule 4. This makes it difficult to fully understand their conservation needs and the level of protection required.

2. Limited resources: The government often has limited resources to devote to the protection of endangered species. This makes it difficult to provide high levels of protection to all species.

3. Conflicts with human activities: Many species listed under Schedule 4 are in conflict with human activities such as agriculture, mining, and development. This makes it difficult to provide high levels of protection without impacting human livelihoods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while animals listed under Schedule 4 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 are protected, the level of protection provided is low. This highlights the need for greater research, resources, and cooperation between stakeholders to ensure that these species are adequately protected and conserved.

Indian Wild Ass (Equus hemionus khur) is not listed in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Explanation:
The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an important legislation in India that aims to protect and conserve wildlife in the country. It categorizes different species of animals into various schedules, with Schedule 1 providing the highest level of protection.

However, the Indian Wild Ass, also known as the Ghudkhur or Khur, is not listed in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act. Let's understand why:

1. Schedule 1: Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act includes species that are considered to be highly endangered and in need of strict protection. These species are protected from hunting, poaching, and trade. Examples of animals listed in Schedule 1 are the Indian rhinoceros, blackbuck, and lion-tailed macaque.

2. Indian Wild Ass: The Indian Wild Ass, also known as the Asiatic Wild Ass, is a species of wild horse native to the arid regions of the Indian subcontinent. It is primarily found in the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, India. While the Indian Wild Ass is not listed in Schedule 1, it is classified as a "near threatened" species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

3. Conservation Status: The Indian Wild Ass faces various threats, including habitat loss, illegal hunting, and competition for resources with domestic livestock. Efforts are being made by the government and conservation organizations to protect and conserve this species. The Wild Ass Sanctuary in Gujarat was established to provide a protected habitat for the Indian Wild Ass and promote its conservation.

4. Schedule 2: Although the Indian Wild Ass is not listed in Schedule 1, it is included in Schedule 2 of the Wildlife Protection Act. Schedule 2 includes species that are not necessarily highly endangered but still require protection. Animals listed in Schedule 2 have some level of legal protection, and their hunting and trade are regulated.

In conclusion, the Indian Wild Ass is not listed in Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. However, it is included in Schedule 2, indicating the recognition of its conservation importance and the need for its protection.

Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 provides protection to certain animals which are not endangered but can become so if they are not protected. These animals are considered to be of least concern in terms of conservation status. The animals listed under Schedule 5 are protected from hunting, poaching or any other form of exploitation.

The correct answer to the question is option 'C' - Common crow. It is not listed under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

Explanation:
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted for the protection of plants and animal species. It provides for the protection of wild animals and birds in India and establishes a network of protected areas.
- Schedule 5: Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 lists animals which are not threatened with extinction but need to be protected so as to prevent their extinction in the future. It includes animals such as common rat, common mice, fruit bats, Indian giant squirrel, Indian pangolin, etc.
- Common crow: The common crow is a bird species found all over India. It is not listed under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 as it is not considered to be threatened with extinction. However, it is protected under other schedules of the act as it is a part of India's wildlife and ecosystem.

In conclusion, the correct answer to the question is option 'C' - Common crow, which is not listed under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.