Wildlife Protection Act 1972 — Set 8
Forest & Wildlife · वन्यजीव संरक्षण अधिनियम 1972 · Questions 71–80 of 140
The Star Tortoise in India is protected under which Schedule of WPA 1972?
Correct Answer: C. Schedule I
The Indian Star Tortoise (Geochelone elegans) is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, providing maximum protection. It is also listed on CITES Appendix II due to heavy illegal trade for the exotic pet market. India is one of the top source countries for illegally traded star tortoises.
Under WPA 1972, all offences related to Schedule I species are classified as:
Correct Answer: C. Cognizable and non-bailable
All offences relating to Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 are cognizable (police can arrest without warrant) and non-bailable. This means the accused cannot get bail as a matter of right from a police station. The serious classification reflects the high conservation value of Schedule I species and deters poachers.
Hunting of wild birds and animals is generally prohibited under which section of WPA 1972?
Correct Answer: B. Section 9
Section 9 of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 prohibits the hunting of any wild animal specified in Schedules I through IV. This is the core prohibition of the Act. Exceptions are made only in specific cases such as self-defence, preventing serious crop damage, or under special permits for scientific purposes.
Which of the following best describes the role of the WCCB?
Correct Answer: B. A statutory body to combat organized wildlife crime and assist in enforcement
The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) is a statutory multi-disciplinary body established in 2007 to combat organized wildlife crime in India. It functions under MHA and collects intelligence about wildlife crime networks. WCCB coordinates with state police, forest departments, customs, and Interpol to dismantle wildlife trafficking networks.
The Indian Crocodile (Mugger) is protected under which Schedule of WPA 1972?
Correct Answer: A. Schedule I
The Mugger Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, providing it maximum protection. All three species of crocodiles found in India — Mugger, Saltwater Crocodile, and Gharial — are listed under Schedule I. The Gharial is Critically Endangered and is one of the most protected reptiles in India.
Which of the following is a valid ground for hunting an animal listed in Schedules of WPA 1972?
Correct Answer: C. For self-defense if an animal becomes a threat to human life
Under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, an animal can be hunted in self-defence without prior permission if it poses an immediate threat to human life. The Chief Wildlife Warden can also permit the hunting of a dangerous animal threatening human life or property. This is a limited exception and does not apply to the general harvesting of wildlife.
The concept of 'Protected Area Network' in India is governed primarily by:
Correct Answer: B. Wildlife Protection Act 1972
India's Protected Area Network — comprising National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves, and Community Reserves — is governed primarily by the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. The network currently covers over 5% of India's geographical area. The WPA 1972 provides the legal framework for establishing, managing, and protecting these areas.
The Irrawaddy Dolphin found in India's Chilika Lake is protected under:
Correct Answer: C. Schedule I
The Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris), found in Chilika Lake in Odisha and Ganga-Brahmaputra systems, is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Chilika Lake hosts one of the few remaining populations of this dolphin in India.
Which article of the Indian Constitution provides the fundamental duty to protect wildlife?
Correct Answer: C. Article 51A(g)
Article 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution, introduced by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, imposes a fundamental duty on every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. Article 48A, also added in 1976, directs the State to protect the environment and wildlife. Together these provisions provide the constitutional basis for wildlife protection laws.
The Ministry responsible for administering the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 in India is:
Correct Answer: C. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
The Wildlife Protection Act 1972 is administered by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). MoEFCC issues all central-level notifications under the Act including ESZ declarations and NBWL approvals. The Ministry also coordinates India's international commitments under CITES and CBD.