March 3 is observed as World Wildlife Day every year to bring attention to the importance of protecting endangered species. This year's theme, 'Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet', highlights the need for sustainable measures to protect our diverse wildlife. The United Nations General Assembly declared this day in 2013, coinciding with the signing of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This international agreement, with 185 parties, aims to regulate and control the trade of endangered species to ensure their survival. Three appendices list the species under different categories based on their level of protection needed, with stricter rules for Appendix I species such as the Indian star tortoise.
The majestic tiger, one of the most iconic and beloved animals on Earth, is facing numerous threats and risks extinction. International Tiger Day 2024, observed on July 29, serves as a reminder to take urgent action to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats. The day highlights the urgent need for coordinated global efforts to combat habitat loss, poaching and illegal wildlife trade, and promote sustainable initiatives for the preservation of this species. Let us unite and raise awareness about the challenges facing tigers and work towards creating a world where these big cats can thrive.
Two accused have been arrested by forest department officials for illegally possessing, displaying, and trading protected animals at the Dadar Marine Aqua Zoo. Despite claims, the zoo does not have recognition from the Central Zoo Authority and had been operating as a commercial facility. An FIR has also been registered against the zoo under sections of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972). The zoo has since closed for visitors and the owners have begun demolishing the structures. In other news, TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu has announced that the party will continue to be a part of the NDA alliance after their victory in Andhra Pradesh.
With World Environment Day approaching, World Animal Protection is calling for responsible treatment of all animals, whether in the wild or on commercial wildlife farms. Their recent research has uncovered the cruel conditions in which an estimated 5.5 billion wild animals are being kept, with lack of transparency and inadequate monitoring in the multi-billion-dollar industry. As more and more elephants, bears, and big cats are being bred in captivity for activities like tourism and traditional medicine, the impact on conservation and animal welfare is concerning. The organization urges for stricter enforcement of wildlife trade laws and retirement of elephants used for riding in Amer Fort and Haathi Gaon to wildlife sanctuaries. Additionally, with the focus of World Environment Day 2024 on land restoration and drought resilience, the harmful effects of factory farming on the environment and animal welfare are also emphasized.
Celebrated sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik recently marked World Wildlife Day by sculpting a 50 ft long tiger on the beach at Chandrapur district in Maharashtra. The stunning sand art, created during the Tadoba Festival 2024, presents a peaceful image of a tiger sleeping in a dense forest. Pattnaik shared photos and videos of his masterpiece on social media, garnering global appreciation for his talent and message.