Caged no more: Madhya Pradesh leads race to register exotic pets
By Tina Khatri
Indore
Madhya Pradesh has outpaced all other states, becoming the first in India to complete registrations for exotic pet ownership within the stipulated timelines. Following the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022, state authorities moved quickly to document species that previously thrived in a legal vacuum. Gujarat and Maharashtra followed as runners-up in the national compliance drive.
Between 2011 and 2020, over 70,000 native and exotic animals were trafficked through Indian airports alone. Madhya Pradesh is recognised as a major hub and transit route for wildlife trafficking, alongside states such as West Bengal, Rajasthan, and Assam.
In the Indore division, a crackdown on undocumented menageries has led to 48 owners registering 427 individual animals. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Pradeep Mishra said, “These figures are vital for long-term monitoring, helping authorities track trends and identify risks of illegal trade.” The division has documented 62 distinct species so far.
Historical shift: From royalty to regulation
Fascination with exotic companions dates back centuries:
- Royal heritage: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj kept hunting dogs and leopards, while other rulers maintained tigers and lions.
- British influence: Exotic species entered during British rule. After Independence, British officers gifted pet birds like budgerigars and cockatiels to Indian staff in the early 1950s.
- Pre-1972 era: Before the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, it was common to keep native animals like star tortoises, sloth bears, and porcupines as pets.
- The loophole: After the 1972 Act protected native wildlife, the preference shifted towards exotic species, which remained outside the purview of Indian law.
Media boom and emerging problems
The trend of exotic pet ownership intensified in the 2000s, heavily influenced by television programmes. “These programmes strongly influenced young Indians and first-time pet owners,” Mishra said. This media-driven demand led to iguanas, bearded dragons, snakes, and tarantulas becoming household fixtures.
The absence of a clear regulatory framework created significant problems. Mishra noted that the lack of proper laws governing the import and ownership of exotic pets led to illegal trafficking, high mortality rates during smuggling, and inflated prices. Exotic animals became status symbols, presenting major conservation challenges.
Currently, some pet shops in Indore legally keep registered species such as macaws, lories, sun conures, and iguanas. “Buying from registered sources is essential, and keeping any CITES-listed species without proper documentation is now illegal,” Mishra emphasised.
Current enforcement and welfare
The amended law now includes all CITES-listed exotic species under Schedule IV, creating a clear legal framework. Owners must register animals on the Parivesh 2.0 portal to obtain a Certificate of Possession (CoP). Registered animals must undergo veterinary checks every six months, and any changes—such as birth, death, escape, or transfer—must be reported. Field teams are tasked with verifying species and enclosure conditions within 30 days. Chief wildlife wardens hold full authority, ensuring decentralised control and better welfare standards. Mishra clarified that the focus is on animal welfare, not on harassing owners.
Future outlook and threats
- Online trade: Mishra identified social media and messaging apps as emerging threats for illegal sales.
- Vigilance: Intelligence-based monitoring is required to tackle hidden wildlife trade.
- Awareness: Many violations occur because citizens remain unaware of the law.
Mishra recommended that a clear list of CITES-listed species be displayed in all pet shops. "The focus now is on consistent implementation," he concluded. Responsible ownership and strict enforcement will represent India’s contribution to global conservation efforts.