Through this paper, the author has attempted to analyse the legislative and regulatory framework regarding the protection of exotic species of animals being traded in India. The paper identifies the lacunae in the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 (“WLPA”) and the highlights the need to harmonise the national legislation with the international regulatory framework, that is, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (“CITES”). In recent times, various schemes and developmental actions have been taken by the Indian government that indicates a positive and secure future for the exotic animal species being traded in India. In light of these developments, this paper also puts forth a few suggestions to fill in the gaps in domestic law in order to ensure wider applicability of the WLPA and subsequently greater protection to the exotic animal species in India.
