Government issues advisory to streamline possession of exotic live species

The Union Ministry of Environment has issued an advisory to streamline the process for import and possession of exotic live species in the country. Registrations would be done for the stock of animals, new progeny, as well as their import and exchange, a press statement issued by PIB said.

Exotic live species of animal and plant are those who have been moved from their original range to a new one.

The statement said that the database of exotic animals would help in the control and management of zoonotic diseases on, which guidance would be available from time to time to ensure the safety of animals and humans,

Many citizens of the country have kept CITES (Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species) enlisted, exotic animal species in their possession. However, there is no unified information system available of such stock of species at the State and Centre level, the statement said.

The Ministry has decided to collect stock information from the holders of such species through voluntary disclosure in the next six months. This will help in better management of the species and guide the holders about proper veterinary care, housing and other aspects of the well-being of the species, the statement added.