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The Pune Forest Department has initiated enforcement measures against individuals found feeding wild birds and animals, particularly those who subsequently share their interactions on social media platforms. This crackdown follows complaints received by the department regarding such activities in the Warje and Kothrud areas, resulting in notices being issued to the offenders last week.
According to Deepak Pawar, Assistant Conservator of Forest, Pune, the department's response was prompted by a lack of awareness among the public about the legal implications and ecological impacts of feeding wild animals. "After discovering that people were unaware of the rules and the consequences of their actions, we launched an awareness campaign," Pawar states. He emphasized the importance of refraining from petting, feeding, or posting photos and videos of wild animals on social media.
In India, under Section 9 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, interactions such as petting, feeding, and repeated handling of wild animals are deemed criminal offenses. The legislation aims to safeguard wildlife from human interference, ensuring their conservation and protection.
The banned activities include daily feeding of various bird species like parrots and mynas, handling and photographing different types of snakes such as pythons, capturing videos or photos that depict bravery by handling snakes by the neck, and taking pictures or videos of cuddling or holding snakes.
Aditya Paranjape, Wildlife Warden, elaborated on Section 11 of the act, which specifically prohibits actions that disturb or capture wildlife without proper authorization.
"Feeding wildlife can disrupt natural behaviors and lead to dependency on humans for food, which poses long-term risks to their survival," Paranjape explained. The department's efforts are focused on upholding these regulations to maintain the natural balance and well-being of wildlife populations in urban environments.
While there are no specific regulations on handling or keeping wild animals in other countries, the stringent measures under the Wildlife Protection Act highlight the seriousness of protecting and conserving India's diverse wildlife species. The forest department urges residents to respect these laws and contribute to the preservation of wildlife by refraining from feeding and interacting with wild animals outside of authorized conservation efforts.
As the awareness campaign gains momentum, authorities are keen to educate the public about responsible wildlife stewardship and the importance of adhering to legal guidelines to ensure the coexistence of humans and wildlife in Pune and beyond.
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