The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is an Act of the Parliament of India enacted for protection of plants and animal species. No alteration of the boundaries of a Sanctuary or a National Park shall be made except on a resolution passed by the Legislature of the State.
The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972,
(i) Prohibits the capturing, killing, poisoning or trapping of wild animals.
(ii) Establishment of protected areas.
(iii) Protection and management of wildlife habitats.
(iv) Regulation and control of trade in parts and products derived from wildlife.
(v) Management of zoos.
There are six schedules which give varying degrees of protection.
Schedule I and part II of Schedule II provide absolute protection - offences under these are prescribed the highest penalties.
Species listed in Schedule III and Schedule IV are also protected, but the penalties are much lower.
Schedule V includes the animals which may be hunted.
The specified endemic plants in Schedule VI are prohibited from cultivation and planting.
