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The Indian star tortoise, a species listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, has become a prime target for wildlife traffickers operating across the India-Bangladesh border.
In early September 2024, the Border Security Force (BSF) intercepted smugglers attempting to transport nearly 200 tortoises into Bangladesh.
This incident is part of a larger trend where traffickers exploit the porous borders to move these animals into international markets, especially in Southeast Asia.
Smuggling of Indian star tortoises has seen a sharp rise in recent years, with experts linking the surge to the high demand for exotic pets and good luck charms.
The tortoise is considered a symbol of longevity and fortune in parts of India and abroad, making it a sought-after animal.
In western India, many people keep the tortoise for religious purposes or simply for its exotic value.
This increased demand has fueled a lucrative illegal trade, often involving impoverished rural communities in southern India, who collect the animals from the wild and sell them to middlemen for minimal profits.
Between 2015 and 2024, authorities in West Bengal alone have seized more than 1,250 live tortoises, though experts believe the actual numbers are far higher.
The trade is well-organized, with traffickers using established routes that move the tortoises from southern states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala to major cities such as Kolkata, where they are handed over to international smugglers.
The animals are often transported in sacks by road and rail, making it difficult for authorities to detect and intercept them.
Once the tortoises cross into Bangladesh, they are believed to be moved to other countries, including Thailand and China. However, enforcement challenges persist.
BSF officers often lack the necessary training to handle live wildlife after seizures, adding complexity to efforts to curb the trade.
Wildlife experts warn that the continued trafficking of Indian star tortoises could lead to ecological consequences. As the species plays a critical role in seed dispersal and grass grazing.
Despite legal protections under both Indian and international law, including the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, which mandates strict penalties for trafficking. The illegal trade of Indian star tortoises remains a significant challenge.
Rising demand and covert smuggling make it harder for authorities to save this vulnerable species.
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