Regarding the legal protection of Dugong (Sea Cow) in India, consider the following statements:
Statement 1: The Dugong is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Statement 2: This classification provides the Dugong with the highest level of legal protection, similar to that of the Tiger.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 1 i.e. Both Statement 1 and Statement 2.
In India, the Dugong (also known as the Sea Cow) is a strictly protected herbivorous marine mammal. Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, it is listed under Schedule I. This specific listing ensures that the species receives the highest degree of legal protection available under Indian law.
Consequently, any poaching, hunting, or trade of the Dugong attracts the most severe penalties and legal consequences, placing it on the same conservation priority level as iconic species like the Tiger and the One-horned Rhinoceros.