May 17, 2026
Inside the “Snake Village of India”; a traveller’s guide to this mysterious place of venomous cobras

Inside the “Snake Village of India”; a traveller’s guide to this mysterious place of venomous cobras

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Snakes are among one of the most feared and unfriendly creatures on Earth. But deep in the heart of Maharashtra’s Solapur district lies a village where we get to see an unimaginable friendship between two extremely opposite species, humans and snakes. Any first-time visitor would be shocked. This is Shetphal, also famous as the “Snake…

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NEW DELHI: The National Testing Agency on Friday announced that the re-examination for NEET (UG) 2026 will be held on Sunday, June 21.The decision comes days after the agency cancelled the NEET-UG exam conducted on May 3 following allegations of irregularities, impacting lakhs of medical aspirants across the countryEarlier, the government also ordered a comprehensive Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged irregularities surrounding the examination.Earlier cancelling the exam, the NTA said that the decision was taken “in the interest of students” and to protect public trust in the national examination system.”On the basis of inputs subsequently examined by NTA in coordination with central agencies, and the investigative findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, the National Testing Agency, with the approval of the Government of India, has decided to cancel the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on 3 May 2026, and to re-conduct the examination on dates that will be notified separately,” the agency posted on X.”The inputs received by NTA, taken together with the findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, established that the present examination process could not be allowed to stand. The re-conducted examination dates, along with the re-issued admit-card schedule, will be communicated through the official channels of the agency in the coming days,” it added.Why was NEET-UG 2026 cancelled?The move comes days after investigators uncovered evidence suggesting that a question set described by officials as a “guess paper” had circulated among aspirants weeks before the exam and allegedly contained a large number of questions that closely matched the actual NEET paper.According to investigators, a document containing around 410 questions had been circulating among students between 15 days and one month before the exam. Officials said nearly 120 questions from the Chemistry section allegedly matched the actual examination paper exactly.Authorities also claimed that the material had been shared through WhatsApp groups as little as 42 hours before the exam.The Rajasthan Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), which is leading the initial investigation, launched a probe after reports surfaced that the circulated material showed “striking similarities” to questions asked in the examination.SOG additional director general Vishal Bansal said investigators were examining whether the material was merely a test series or part of a larger organised cheating racket.”Our investigation is currently focused on determining whether any cheating or criminal activity has occurred based on this guess paper,” Bansal said, as reported by ANI.”We are actively examining this matter and are currently engaged in the investigative process. No, as of now, we have not made any arrests of any kind,” he added.Bansal noted that investigators found a set of over 400 questions circulated days before the exam, with over 100 biology and chemistry questions showing “striking similarities” to those asked in NEET.Bansal described it as a “guess paper” or test series, but sources said a deeper nexus has not been ruled out, citing searches and questioning across several Rajasthan cities and in Dehradun.Similar videos and copies of test-series question papers were also shared on social media from a coaching academy in Latur, Maharashtra.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPetrol, Diesel And CNG Prices Hiked Amid Hormuz Crisis; PM Modi Urges Fuel ConservationRiju Dutta Hits Out At TMC, But Defends Mamata Banerjee Over “Thief” Chants Outside CourtDelhi HC Judge Initiates Contempt Proceedings Against Kejriwal; Refers Case To New Bench2 Days WFH To ‘No Vehicle Day’: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Unveils Fuel-Saving Steps After PM Modi’s CallCong Picks VD Satheesan As Kerala CM; Iran FM Lands In India For Brics Meet With ‘Minab168’ MsgSupreme Court Questions CEC Appointment Process, Raises ‘Independence’ ConcernsMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High Court123PhotostoriesThought of the day, inspired by the Bhagavad Gita: Your purpose lies in your actionsWhy does immunity suddenly feel weaker in Summer? Expert reveals the hidden habits that drain your body’s defencesAishwarya Rai Bachchan’s beauty secrets may already be in your kitchen10 baby boy names that mean winner in different languagesCannes 2026: Alia Bhatt’s fairytale core to Demi Moore’s Gucci glam- Who wore what on day 2Morning affirmation at 5 AM: The mindset you need before sunriseFriday OTT releases this week (May 11-17): ‘Kartavya’, ‘Berlin’ and ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ lead the lineupTara Sutaria looks straight out of a 1950s Hollywood dream at Cannes in this vintage Vivienne Westwood coutureHappy Birthday Vicky Kaushal: With Katrina Kaif, Sunny Kaushal and family, inside the actor’s most heartwarming momentsMilk Price Hike: Popular packaged milk prices rise across India; healthy milk alternatives to add to daily diet123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

NEW DELHI: The National Testing Agency on Friday announced that the re-examination for NEET (UG) 2026 will be held on Sunday, June 21.The decision comes days after the agency cancelled the NEET-UG exam conducted on May 3 following allegations of irregularities, impacting lakhs of medical aspirants across the countryEarlier, the government also ordered a comprehensive Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged irregularities surrounding the examination.Earlier cancelling the exam, the NTA said that the decision was taken “in the interest of students” and to protect public trust in the national examination system.”On the basis of inputs subsequently examined by NTA in coordination with central agencies, and the investigative findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, the National Testing Agency, with the approval of the Government of India, has decided to cancel the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on 3 May 2026, and to re-conduct the examination on dates that will be notified separately,” the agency posted on X.”The inputs received by NTA, taken together with the findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, established that the present examination process could not be allowed to stand. The re-conducted examination dates, along with the re-issued admit-card schedule, will be communicated through the official channels of the agency in the coming days,” it added.Why was NEET-UG 2026 cancelled?The move comes days after investigators uncovered evidence suggesting that a question set described by officials as a “guess paper” had circulated among aspirants weeks before the exam and allegedly contained a large number of questions that closely matched the actual NEET paper.According to investigators, a document containing around 410 questions had been circulating among students between 15 days and one month before the exam. Officials said nearly 120 questions from the Chemistry section allegedly matched the actual examination paper exactly.Authorities also claimed that the material had been shared through WhatsApp groups as little as 42 hours before the exam.The Rajasthan Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), which is leading the initial investigation, launched a probe after reports surfaced that the circulated material showed “striking similarities” to questions asked in the examination.SOG additional director general Vishal Bansal said investigators were examining whether the material was merely a test series or part of a larger organised cheating racket.”Our investigation is currently focused on determining whether any cheating or criminal activity has occurred based on this guess paper,” Bansal said, as reported by ANI.”We are actively examining this matter and are currently engaged in the investigative process. No, as of now, we have not made any arrests of any kind,” he added.Bansal noted that investigators found a set of over 400 questions circulated days before the exam, with over 100 biology and chemistry questions showing “striking similarities” to those asked in NEET.Bansal described it as a “guess paper” or test series, but sources said a deeper nexus has not been ruled out, citing searches and questioning across several Rajasthan cities and in Dehradun.Similar videos and copies of test-series question papers were also shared on social media from a coaching academy in Latur, Maharashtra.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPetrol, Diesel And CNG Prices Hiked Amid Hormuz Crisis; PM Modi Urges Fuel ConservationRiju Dutta Hits Out At TMC, But Defends Mamata Banerjee Over “Thief” Chants Outside CourtDelhi HC Judge Initiates Contempt Proceedings Against Kejriwal; Refers Case To New Bench2 Days WFH To ‘No Vehicle Day’: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Unveils Fuel-Saving Steps After PM Modi’s CallCong Picks VD Satheesan As Kerala CM; Iran FM Lands In India For Brics Meet With ‘Minab168’ MsgSupreme Court Questions CEC Appointment Process, Raises ‘Independence’ ConcernsMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High Court123PhotostoriesThought of the day, inspired by the Bhagavad Gita: Your purpose lies in your actionsWhy does immunity suddenly feel weaker in Summer? Expert reveals the hidden habits that drain your body’s defencesAishwarya Rai Bachchan’s beauty secrets may already be in your kitchen10 baby boy names that mean winner in different languagesCannes 2026: Alia Bhatt’s fairytale core to Demi Moore’s Gucci glam- Who wore what on day 2Morning affirmation at 5 AM: The mindset you need before sunriseFriday OTT releases this week (May 11-17): ‘Kartavya’, ‘Berlin’ and ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ lead the lineupTara Sutaria looks straight out of a 1950s Hollywood dream at Cannes in this vintage Vivienne Westwood coutureHappy Birthday Vicky Kaushal: With Katrina Kaif, Sunny Kaushal and family, inside the actor’s most heartwarming momentsMilk Price Hike: Popular packaged milk prices rise across India; healthy milk alternatives to add to daily diet123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: The National Testing Agency on Friday announced that the re-examination for NEET (UG) 2026 will be held on Sunday, June 21.The decision comes days after the agency cancelled the NEET-UG exam conducted on May 3 following allegations of irregularities, impacting lakhs of medical aspirants across the countryEarlier, the government also ordered a comprehensive…

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Stock Market Live Updates: BSE Sensex opens over 100 points down; Nifty50 near 23,700 as global crude oil prices remain high

Stock Market Live Updates: BSE Sensex opens over 100 points down; Nifty50 near 23,700 as global crude oil prices remain high

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

“Indian equity markets are expected to open on a mildly positive note, with Gift Nifty trading around 23,769, up by 40 points. Global equities traded mixed after a muted session on Wall Street, as investors remained cautious amid concerns over elevated bond yields, inflation outlook, and uncertainty surrounding the pace of global economic recovery. Market…

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BSEB extends OFSS Bihar Class 11 admission deadline 2026 till May 18: Check list of required documents here

BSEB extends OFSS Bihar Class 11 admission deadline 2026 till May 18: Check list of required documents here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

BSEB extends OFSS Bihar Class 11 admission deadline 2026 till May 18 The Bihar School Examination Board has extended the admission deadline for Class 11 admissions under the Online Facilitation System for Students (OFSS) for the 2026-28 academic session. As per the revised schedule, students who were allotted seats through the first merit list can…

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‘The Batman: Part II’: Matt Reeves CONFIRMS Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan and Charles Dance as new additions to Robert Pattinson starrer

‘The Batman: Part II’: Matt Reeves CONFIRMS Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan and Charles Dance as new additions to Robert Pattinson starrer

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Director Matt Reeves picked up his casting roll after Wednesday’s big reveal and confirmed several new additions to the cast of ‘The Batman: Part II’. Months after the news first broke online about the new additions, the director officially welcomed Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan and Charles Dance to the upcoming sequel starring Robert Pattinson in…

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India voices concern over Strait of Hormuz, Gaza at BRICS conclave

India voices concern over Strait of Hormuz, Gaza at BRICS conclave

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

India on Thursday voiced strong concerns over the crisis in West Asia, warning that continued tensions threaten global energy supplies, maritime stability and economic security, as external affairs minister S Jaishankar urged BRICS nations to find “practical ways” to deal with geopolitical upheavals and “unilateral coercive” sanctions.Addressing the opening day of a two-day BRICS conclave,…

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May 15, 2026, 09:38 IST

May 15, 2026, 09:38 IST

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Wrong to remove Sreejesh in just 15 months: Felix (Image: X) KOLKATA: Former India hockey captain Jude Felix came down hard on Hockey India, criticising its handling of PR Sreejesh’s exit and calling it “wrong” to remove him barely 15 months into the role.Felix, who took charge of the junior men’s team in 2017, was…

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NEET UG 2026 re-exam on June 21 after paper leak row; NTA issues advisory to students

NEET UG 2026 re-exam on June 21 after paper leak row; NTA issues advisory to students

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The National Testing Agency (NTA), with the approval of the Government of India, has scheduled the NEET UG 2026 re-examination for Sunday, June 21, 2026, following the cancellation of the earlier test over alleged paper leak and examination irregularities.In an official notice, NTA asked candidates and parents to rely only on official communication channels for…

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‘People see only rumours, not my pain,’ Singer Kenishaa REACTS to viral allegations linked to Ravi Mohan

‘People see only rumours, not my pain,’ Singer Kenishaa REACTS to viral allegations linked to Ravi Mohan

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Singer Kenishaa has released an emotional video reacting to the constant criticism and rumours surrounding her friendship with Ravi Mohan. For the past few months, many social media users have blamed Kenishaa for Ravi Mohan’s divorce and family issues. Even after legal notices were reportedly sent against false claims, the criticism online continued. In her…

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From doctrine to dominance: how integrated systems shaped Operation Sindoor

From doctrine to dominance: how integrated systems shaped Operation Sindoor

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

**EDS: SCREENGRAB VIA PTI VIDEOS** New Delhi: Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan speaks during the Kalam & Kavach 3.0 defence dialogue, in New Delhi. (PTI Photo)(PTI05_14_2026_000556B) Chief of defence staff general Anil Chauhan, who is slated to retire this month, credited India’s dominance in the escalation matrix during Operation Sindoor to integrated systems…

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Representative image (AI-generated) “What happens when a species disappears from the wild and we realise its importance only after it is gone?”In 2026, India stands at a striking crossroads in its wildlife story. On one side are remarkable conservation success stories showing rising number of tigers, the return of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir and renewed efforts to protect species such as the snow leopard and Asian elephant. On the other side, dozens of species continue to slip quietly toward extinction. The crisis is not sudden; it is slow, layered and deeply tied to how humans share space with nature.Over the past five decades, India has built one of the most structured wildlife protection systems in the world. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 created a legal framework that restricts hunting, regulates wildlife trade and establishes protected areas. But despite this legal architecture, pressure on wildlife continues to grow. Rapid urban expansion, shrinking forests, infrastructure development, pollution and climate stress are steadily eroding habitats. As the nation observes National Endangered Species Day, these laws reflect strong intent, but raise a difficult question: Can legal protection alone keep pace with the speed at which nature is changing?National Endangered Species Day: Why the world is sounding the alarm for wildlifeNational Endangered Species Day is observed every year on the third Friday of May as a global reminder of the accelerating loss of biodiversity and the growing number of species pushed towards extinction. The day emerged in 2006, initiated by conservation voices in the United States. The aim behind celebrating this day is to make people understand that endangered species are not just scientific classifications, but living indicators of ecosystem health. Their decline often signals deeper environmental stress, including habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution and climate change. Over time, global conservation bodies such as the IUCN have documented a sharp rise in species under threat, with thousands now listed as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered..Advocate Rupali Jain has raised concern over the growing human–wildlife conflict in India, saying that rapid infrastructure growth and shrinking forest habitats are forcing wild animals into unsafe encounters with humans on roads and in populated areas.”As a deeply concerned citizen who cherishes India’s wildlife, my heart aches seeing wild animals frequently stepping onto busy roads, confused and vulnerable. This heartbreaking sight reflects our failure to balance development with conservation. Habitats that once belonged to tigers, elephants, leopards and countless species are being relentlessly destroyed, leaving no space for their homes. Understaffed forest departments, weak enforcement and unchecked infrastructure projects push animals into human territories, triggering fatal accidents and rising conflicts. We have forgotten that forests are their rightful home, not ours to claim entirely. Without urgent action and genuine sustainable development, we risk losing our precious wildlife forever,” she told TOI. From Royal Bengal tiger to Ganges river dolphin: India’s rising extinction crisisIndia’s extinction crisis is increasingly reflected in the steady rise of species classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List.The Royal Bengal tiger remains one of the most closely monitored species, listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, even as India records conservation gains through protected reserves. In contrast, the Ganges river dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal, is classified as Endangered and continues to decline due to river pollution, dam construction and reduced water flow in major river systems.The Asian elephant, also listed as Endangered, faces severe habitat fragmentation as forests are broken up by highways, rail projects and expanding human settlements, increasing human–wildlife conflict. In high-altitude regions, the snow leopard is categorised as Vulnerable, with threats linked to habitat degradation, prey depletion and climate-driven shifts in Himalayan ecosystems..Among the most critical cases is the Great Indian Bustard, listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with power line collisions and habitat loss in grassland ecosystems pushing the species closer to extinction. Across these species, the underlying drivers remain consistent: large-scale habitat loss, driven by rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion, combined with poaching, illegal wildlife trade and climate change impacts that are altering ecosystems faster than they can adapt.Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: India’s core law for wildlife conservationThe Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 was brought in response to a sharp decline in India’s wildlife populations, driven by uncontrolled hunting and shrinking habitats. One of the most alarming indicators was the Bengal tiger, whose population had dropped to around 1,827 in the early 1970s. Several other species were also under pressure due to poaching and lack of a unified legal system.Before this Act, wildlife protection existed in fragmented forms and was not strong enough to prevent large-scale loss. The 1972 law became a turning point by creating a single national framework for conservation and marking the beginning of structured wildlife protection in India.The Act establishes a strict ban on hunting of protected species and regulates wildlife trade across the country.. It created a network of protected areas, including wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, conservation reserves, community reserves and tiger reserves, each with different levels of protection and permitted human activity.It also prohibits trade in high-value wildlife products such as ivory, animal skins and bones, aiming to curb poaching-driven markets. Enforcement powers are given to forest officers, wildlife wardens and agencies like the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), enabling search, seizure and prosecution of wildlife offences.Advocate Rupali Jain on the 2022 amendment to the Wildlife Protection Act said: “While the 2022 Amendment brings some hope by aligning with CITES and increasing penalties, I remain deeply worried about its real impact on India’s wildlife. The vague clause allowing captive elephants to be transferred for ‘any other purpose’ feels like an open door to exploitation, which pains every animal lover. Over-broad scheduling without scientific focus has complicated protection rather than strengthening it.” Advocate Vidur Kamra has said that while the act attempts to strengthen India’s wildlife protection framework concerns remain over certain provisions and their implementation.”The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022 aligns Indian law with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and streamlines enforcement by reducing schedules from six to four. The amendment also strengthens penalties and regulatory mechanisms against illegal wildlife trade. However, serious concerns have been raised regarding Section 43, which permits transfer of captive elephants for “religious or any other purposes,” potentially enabling misuse and illegal trafficking. Further, several species earlier enjoying the highest degree of protection have allegedly been shifted to lower schedules, increasing vulnerability to hunting,” he told TOI.Schedules under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972The Act classifies species into six schedules based on their conservation priority and legal protection..Schedule I: Highest protection (endangered species)Provides the strictest legal protection under Indian lawHunting, poaching and trade are completely prohibited (except rare legal exceptions like human threat cases)Attracts the highest penalties, including long imprisonment and heavy finesExamples: Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, snow leopard, lion, Great Indian BustardSchedule II: High protection speciesStrong protection against hunting and tradeOffences still carry serious penalties under the ActSome species may receive slightly lower protection than Schedule IExamples: Indian cobra, Himalayan black bear, certain deer specieSchedule III: Protected but relatively less threatened speciesHunting is prohibited, but penalties are lower than Schedule I and IIFocus is on preventing population decline rather than critical extinction riskExamples: blackbuck, chital (spotted deer), hyena, sambharSchedule IV: Lesser protection speciesCovers species that are not currently endangeredHunting is restricted and regulatedExamples: peacock, hare, falcon, kingfisherSchedule V: Vermin species (regulated hunting allowed)Includes species considered pests or overpopulatedHunting is legally permitted under regulationExamples: crows, rats, mice, fruit batsSchedule VI: Protected plantsRestricts cultivation, trade and transport of specified plant speciesRequires government permission for use or tradeFocus on preventing ecological damage from invasive or endangered plantsExamples: pitcher plant, blue vanda, red vanda, kuth, slipper orchidsHow India’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act protects domestic animals tooIndia’s animal protection framework is not limited to wildlife alone. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (PCA) extends legal safeguards to domesticated and captive animals, focusing on preventing unnecessary pain and suffering in human-controlled environments. The Act addresses a wide range of issues, including physical abuse such as beating, kicking or mutilation, as well as neglect in providing food, water and basic care.It also regulates the transport of animals, laying down standards to reduce overcrowding, injury and stress during movement.In addition, the law governs the use of animals in scientific experiments, allowing research only under regulated and ethical conditions, with an emphasis on minimising harm..At its core, the PCA promotes welfare standards that require animals to be treated with basic dignity, even when they are under human ownership or use.Kamra also highlighted enforcement challenges in wildlife protection in India.”The Wild Life (Protection) Act continues to face significant implementation gaps despite strong provisions on paper. Rapid urbanisation, deforestation, and infrastructure expansion have intensified human–wildlife conflict. Shortage of forest personnel, weak enforcement, and inadequate surveillance continue to facilitate poaching and illegal wildlife trade,” he said. Project Tiger to Project Elephant: India’s conservation missions for iconic speciesIndia’s conservation strategy extends beyond laws into targeted national programmes designed to protect flagship species and restore declining populations.One of the earliest and most significant of these is Project Tiger, launched in 1973, which was created in response to a steep decline in tiger numbers and the growing threat of extinction. The programme focuses on strengthening tiger reserves, improving habitat quality and reducing poaching pressure. It is widely credited with stabilising and later improving tiger populations in several regions.Building on this model, Project Elephant was launched in 1992 to protect Asian elephants, addressing challenges such as habitat fragmentation, human–wildlife conflict and illegal capture. The initiative focuses on securing migration corridors and reducing conflict in densely populated landscapes where elephants often move through human settlements.In recent years, India’s conservation story has also moved beyond the protection of existing wildlife to the active restoration of species that had disappeared from its landscapes. One of the major examples is the cheetah reintroduction programme at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. It marks a huge step in restoring ecological balance in grassland ecosystems.At the policy level, recent announcements made during the National Board for Wildlife meeting at Gir highlight a renewed push for science-driven conservation. These include the release of India’s first riverine dolphin estimation report, recording over 6,000 dolphins across major rivers and a national action plan for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, aimed at reducing threats from habitat loss and power line collisions.Why India’s strong wildlife laws still face enforcement and conflict gapsIndia is often regarded as having one of the most comprehensive wildlife protection frameworks, built around the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, despite this strong legal structure, conservation experts and field reports continue to point out gaps between law and ground-level enforcement..One of the most persistent challenges is human–wildlife conflict. As forests shrink and infrastructure expands, animals such as elephants, leopards and tigers increasingly move into human-dominated landscapes, leading to crop damage, livestock loss and occasional human casualties. This creates pressure for retaliatory action, making coexistence difficult even in legally protected zones.Another major concern is weak enforcement and the continued existence of illegal wildlife trade. Despite strict penalties and agencies like the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, trafficking networks for skins, bones, ivory and exotic species still operate, often across borders and through organised channels, indicating gaps in surveillance and prosecution.Community reserves, introduced as a conservation model to involve local participation, have also faced criticism in some regions for restricting traditional access to forest resources, creating friction between conservation goals and livelihood needs. At the same time, debates around the 2022 amendment to the Wildlife Act, which allowed regulated use of elephants for certain purposes, have raised ethical questions about animal welfare versus cultural and religious practices.Can India save its wildlife before it’s too late? The urgency of India’s wildlife crisis cannot be seen in isolation. The WWF Living Planet Report highlights a sharp global decline in monitored wildlife populations, with an average drop of nearly 73% over the last five decades. Freshwater species have seen the steepest fall, followed by terrestrial and marine populations. The Amazon rainforest is approaching a critical tipping point where large-scale deforestation and climate change could permanently alter its ecosystem. Coral reefs across the world are experiencing repeated bleaching events due to rising ocean temperatures, threatening marine biodiversity and coastal protection. Freshwater systems are under severe pressure from pollution, overuse and habitat fragmentation, mirroring concerns seen in India’s river ecosystems.India’s wildlife conservation challenge is under strain. While strong legal frameworks like the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and targeted conservation programmes exist, experts stress that laws alone are not enough without effective implementation and public participation.The path forward requires a combination of stronger enforcement, wider awareness, protection of habitats and sustainable development planning that reduces pressure on ecosystems. Local community involvement is equally important, as long-term conservation depends on coexistence between people and wildlife rather than separation alone.About the AuthorPriyanshi RastogiPriyanshi Rastogi is a journalist with The Times of India. She primarily covers national and international news, along with business affairs. Her work focuses on the latest political events, in-depth explainers, features, offbeat articles and viral social media trending stories.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPetrol, Diesel And CNG Prices Hiked Amid Hormuz Crisis; PM Modi Urges Fuel ConservationRiju Dutta Hits Out At TMC, But Defends Mamata Banerjee Over “Thief” Chants Outside CourtDelhi HC Judge Initiates Contempt Proceedings Against Kejriwal; Refers Case To New Bench2 Days WFH To ‘No Vehicle Day’: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Unveils Fuel-Saving Steps After PM Modi’s CallCong Picks VD Satheesan As Kerala CM; Iran FM Lands In India For Brics Meet With ‘Minab168’ MsgSupreme Court Questions CEC Appointment Process, Raises ‘Independence’ ConcernsMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High Court123PhotostoriesThought of the day, inspired by the Bhagavad Gita: Your purpose lies in your actionsWhy does immunity suddenly feel weaker in Summer? Expert reveals the hidden habits that drain your body’s defencesAishwarya Rai Bachchan’s beauty secrets may already be in your kitchen10 baby boy names that mean winner in different languagesCannes 2026: Alia Bhatt’s fairytale core to Demi Moore’s Gucci glam- Who wore what on day 2Morning affirmation at 5 AM: The mindset you need before sunriseFriday OTT releases this week (May 11-17): ‘Kartavya’, ‘Berlin’ and ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ lead the lineupTara Sutaria looks straight out of a 1950s Hollywood dream at Cannes in this vintage Vivienne Westwood coutureHappy Birthday Vicky Kaushal: With Katrina Kaif, Sunny Kaushal and family, inside the actor’s most heartwarming momentsMilk Price Hike: Popular packaged milk prices rise across India; healthy milk alternatives to add to daily diet123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

Representative image (AI-generated) “What happens when a species disappears from the wild and we realise its importance only after it is gone?”In 2026, India stands at a striking crossroads in its wildlife story. On one side are remarkable conservation success stories showing rising number of tigers, the return of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir and renewed efforts to protect species such as the snow leopard and Asian elephant. On the other side, dozens of species continue to slip quietly toward extinction. The crisis is not sudden; it is slow, layered and deeply tied to how humans share space with nature.Over the past five decades, India has built one of the most structured wildlife protection systems in the world. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 created a legal framework that restricts hunting, regulates wildlife trade and establishes protected areas. But despite this legal architecture, pressure on wildlife continues to grow. Rapid urban expansion, shrinking forests, infrastructure development, pollution and climate stress are steadily eroding habitats. As the nation observes National Endangered Species Day, these laws reflect strong intent, but raise a difficult question: Can legal protection alone keep pace with the speed at which nature is changing?National Endangered Species Day: Why the world is sounding the alarm for wildlifeNational Endangered Species Day is observed every year on the third Friday of May as a global reminder of the accelerating loss of biodiversity and the growing number of species pushed towards extinction. The day emerged in 2006, initiated by conservation voices in the United States. The aim behind celebrating this day is to make people understand that endangered species are not just scientific classifications, but living indicators of ecosystem health. Their decline often signals deeper environmental stress, including habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution and climate change. Over time, global conservation bodies such as the IUCN have documented a sharp rise in species under threat, with thousands now listed as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered..Advocate Rupali Jain has raised concern over the growing human–wildlife conflict in India, saying that rapid infrastructure growth and shrinking forest habitats are forcing wild animals into unsafe encounters with humans on roads and in populated areas.”As a deeply concerned citizen who cherishes India’s wildlife, my heart aches seeing wild animals frequently stepping onto busy roads, confused and vulnerable. This heartbreaking sight reflects our failure to balance development with conservation. Habitats that once belonged to tigers, elephants, leopards and countless species are being relentlessly destroyed, leaving no space for their homes. Understaffed forest departments, weak enforcement and unchecked infrastructure projects push animals into human territories, triggering fatal accidents and rising conflicts. We have forgotten that forests are their rightful home, not ours to claim entirely. Without urgent action and genuine sustainable development, we risk losing our precious wildlife forever,” she told TOI. From Royal Bengal tiger to Ganges river dolphin: India’s rising extinction crisisIndia’s extinction crisis is increasingly reflected in the steady rise of species classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List.The Royal Bengal tiger remains one of the most closely monitored species, listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, even as India records conservation gains through protected reserves. In contrast, the Ganges river dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal, is classified as Endangered and continues to decline due to river pollution, dam construction and reduced water flow in major river systems.The Asian elephant, also listed as Endangered, faces severe habitat fragmentation as forests are broken up by highways, rail projects and expanding human settlements, increasing human–wildlife conflict. In high-altitude regions, the snow leopard is categorised as Vulnerable, with threats linked to habitat degradation, prey depletion and climate-driven shifts in Himalayan ecosystems..Among the most critical cases is the Great Indian Bustard, listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with power line collisions and habitat loss in grassland ecosystems pushing the species closer to extinction. Across these species, the underlying drivers remain consistent: large-scale habitat loss, driven by rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion, combined with poaching, illegal wildlife trade and climate change impacts that are altering ecosystems faster than they can adapt.Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: India’s core law for wildlife conservationThe Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 was brought in response to a sharp decline in India’s wildlife populations, driven by uncontrolled hunting and shrinking habitats. One of the most alarming indicators was the Bengal tiger, whose population had dropped to around 1,827 in the early 1970s. Several other species were also under pressure due to poaching and lack of a unified legal system.Before this Act, wildlife protection existed in fragmented forms and was not strong enough to prevent large-scale loss. The 1972 law became a turning point by creating a single national framework for conservation and marking the beginning of structured wildlife protection in India.The Act establishes a strict ban on hunting of protected species and regulates wildlife trade across the country.. It created a network of protected areas, including wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, conservation reserves, community reserves and tiger reserves, each with different levels of protection and permitted human activity.It also prohibits trade in high-value wildlife products such as ivory, animal skins and bones, aiming to curb poaching-driven markets. Enforcement powers are given to forest officers, wildlife wardens and agencies like the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), enabling search, seizure and prosecution of wildlife offences.Advocate Rupali Jain on the 2022 amendment to the Wildlife Protection Act said: “While the 2022 Amendment brings some hope by aligning with CITES and increasing penalties, I remain deeply worried about its real impact on India’s wildlife. The vague clause allowing captive elephants to be transferred for ‘any other purpose’ feels like an open door to exploitation, which pains every animal lover. Over-broad scheduling without scientific focus has complicated protection rather than strengthening it.” Advocate Vidur Kamra has said that while the act attempts to strengthen India’s wildlife protection framework concerns remain over certain provisions and their implementation.”The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022 aligns Indian law with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and streamlines enforcement by reducing schedules from six to four. The amendment also strengthens penalties and regulatory mechanisms against illegal wildlife trade. However, serious concerns have been raised regarding Section 43, which permits transfer of captive elephants for “religious or any other purposes,” potentially enabling misuse and illegal trafficking. Further, several species earlier enjoying the highest degree of protection have allegedly been shifted to lower schedules, increasing vulnerability to hunting,” he told TOI.Schedules under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972The Act classifies species into six schedules based on their conservation priority and legal protection..Schedule I: Highest protection (endangered species)Provides the strictest legal protection under Indian lawHunting, poaching and trade are completely prohibited (except rare legal exceptions like human threat cases)Attracts the highest penalties, including long imprisonment and heavy finesExamples: Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, snow leopard, lion, Great Indian BustardSchedule II: High protection speciesStrong protection against hunting and tradeOffences still carry serious penalties under the ActSome species may receive slightly lower protection than Schedule IExamples: Indian cobra, Himalayan black bear, certain deer specieSchedule III: Protected but relatively less threatened speciesHunting is prohibited, but penalties are lower than Schedule I and IIFocus is on preventing population decline rather than critical extinction riskExamples: blackbuck, chital (spotted deer), hyena, sambharSchedule IV: Lesser protection speciesCovers species that are not currently endangeredHunting is restricted and regulatedExamples: peacock, hare, falcon, kingfisherSchedule V: Vermin species (regulated hunting allowed)Includes species considered pests or overpopulatedHunting is legally permitted under regulationExamples: crows, rats, mice, fruit batsSchedule VI: Protected plantsRestricts cultivation, trade and transport of specified plant speciesRequires government permission for use or tradeFocus on preventing ecological damage from invasive or endangered plantsExamples: pitcher plant, blue vanda, red vanda, kuth, slipper orchidsHow India’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act protects domestic animals tooIndia’s animal protection framework is not limited to wildlife alone. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (PCA) extends legal safeguards to domesticated and captive animals, focusing on preventing unnecessary pain and suffering in human-controlled environments. The Act addresses a wide range of issues, including physical abuse such as beating, kicking or mutilation, as well as neglect in providing food, water and basic care.It also regulates the transport of animals, laying down standards to reduce overcrowding, injury and stress during movement.In addition, the law governs the use of animals in scientific experiments, allowing research only under regulated and ethical conditions, with an emphasis on minimising harm..At its core, the PCA promotes welfare standards that require animals to be treated with basic dignity, even when they are under human ownership or use.Kamra also highlighted enforcement challenges in wildlife protection in India.”The Wild Life (Protection) Act continues to face significant implementation gaps despite strong provisions on paper. Rapid urbanisation, deforestation, and infrastructure expansion have intensified human–wildlife conflict. Shortage of forest personnel, weak enforcement, and inadequate surveillance continue to facilitate poaching and illegal wildlife trade,” he said. Project Tiger to Project Elephant: India’s conservation missions for iconic speciesIndia’s conservation strategy extends beyond laws into targeted national programmes designed to protect flagship species and restore declining populations.One of the earliest and most significant of these is Project Tiger, launched in 1973, which was created in response to a steep decline in tiger numbers and the growing threat of extinction. The programme focuses on strengthening tiger reserves, improving habitat quality and reducing poaching pressure. It is widely credited with stabilising and later improving tiger populations in several regions.Building on this model, Project Elephant was launched in 1992 to protect Asian elephants, addressing challenges such as habitat fragmentation, human–wildlife conflict and illegal capture. The initiative focuses on securing migration corridors and reducing conflict in densely populated landscapes where elephants often move through human settlements.In recent years, India’s conservation story has also moved beyond the protection of existing wildlife to the active restoration of species that had disappeared from its landscapes. One of the major examples is the cheetah reintroduction programme at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. It marks a huge step in restoring ecological balance in grassland ecosystems.At the policy level, recent announcements made during the National Board for Wildlife meeting at Gir highlight a renewed push for science-driven conservation. These include the release of India’s first riverine dolphin estimation report, recording over 6,000 dolphins across major rivers and a national action plan for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, aimed at reducing threats from habitat loss and power line collisions.Why India’s strong wildlife laws still face enforcement and conflict gapsIndia is often regarded as having one of the most comprehensive wildlife protection frameworks, built around the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, despite this strong legal structure, conservation experts and field reports continue to point out gaps between law and ground-level enforcement..One of the most persistent challenges is human–wildlife conflict. As forests shrink and infrastructure expands, animals such as elephants, leopards and tigers increasingly move into human-dominated landscapes, leading to crop damage, livestock loss and occasional human casualties. This creates pressure for retaliatory action, making coexistence difficult even in legally protected zones.Another major concern is weak enforcement and the continued existence of illegal wildlife trade. Despite strict penalties and agencies like the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, trafficking networks for skins, bones, ivory and exotic species still operate, often across borders and through organised channels, indicating gaps in surveillance and prosecution.Community reserves, introduced as a conservation model to involve local participation, have also faced criticism in some regions for restricting traditional access to forest resources, creating friction between conservation goals and livelihood needs. At the same time, debates around the 2022 amendment to the Wildlife Act, which allowed regulated use of elephants for certain purposes, have raised ethical questions about animal welfare versus cultural and religious practices.Can India save its wildlife before it’s too late? The urgency of India’s wildlife crisis cannot be seen in isolation. The WWF Living Planet Report highlights a sharp global decline in monitored wildlife populations, with an average drop of nearly 73% over the last five decades. Freshwater species have seen the steepest fall, followed by terrestrial and marine populations. The Amazon rainforest is approaching a critical tipping point where large-scale deforestation and climate change could permanently alter its ecosystem. Coral reefs across the world are experiencing repeated bleaching events due to rising ocean temperatures, threatening marine biodiversity and coastal protection. Freshwater systems are under severe pressure from pollution, overuse and habitat fragmentation, mirroring concerns seen in India’s river ecosystems.India’s wildlife conservation challenge is under strain. While strong legal frameworks like the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and targeted conservation programmes exist, experts stress that laws alone are not enough without effective implementation and public participation.The path forward requires a combination of stronger enforcement, wider awareness, protection of habitats and sustainable development planning that reduces pressure on ecosystems. Local community involvement is equally important, as long-term conservation depends on coexistence between people and wildlife rather than separation alone.About the AuthorPriyanshi RastogiPriyanshi Rastogi is a journalist with The Times of India. She primarily covers national and international news, along with business affairs. 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Representative image (AI-generated) “What happens when a species disappears from the wild and we realise its importance only after it is gone?”In 2026, India stands at a striking crossroads in its wildlife story. On one side are remarkable conservation success stories showing rising number of tigers, the return of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir and…

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