India's Wildlife Crime Battle: A Multi-Front Effort

In the period from 2020 to 2024, India registered over 2,700 cases of wildlife crime, according to government data, with West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana tallying the highest numbers. Union Minister of State for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh highlighted the responsibility of state governments and Union Territories under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, to curb this illegal activity.

The Wild Life Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) plays a pivotal role, gathering intelligence, coordinating enforcement, and issuing alerts to combat organized wildlife crime. Between 2020 and 2024, national statistics showed a total of 2,701 cases, revealing a yearly downtrend. West Bengal led with 349 cases, while other states also reported significant numbers.

Singh emphasized India's commitment to wildlife crime prevention through collaboration with state agencies, customs, and international bodies like INTERPOL. The WCCB has conducted numerous training programs and awareness campaigns. The government remains resolute in its efforts to protect biodiversity, focusing on joint operations, intelligence sharing, and sensitization of border forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)