1972
Explanation
The Wildlife (Protection) Act is the primary legislation in India enacted to provide a legal framework for the protection of various species of wild animals and plants, management of their habitats, and regulation and control of trade in wild animals, plants, and products made from them.Analysis of Options:
- 1972: The Wildlife (Protection) Act was enacted in this year. It established schedules of protected plant and animal species, created protected areas (National Parks and Sanctuaries), and regulated hunting and trade.
- 1980: This year corresponds to the enactment of the Forest (Conservation) Act, which focuses on the conservation of forests and restricts the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes.
- 1986: The Environment (Protection) Act was enacted in 1986. It serves as umbrella legislation for the protection and improvement of the environment.
- 1992: This year is associated with the launch of Project Elephant, a centrally sponsored scheme to protect elephants, their habitats, and corridors.
Key Takeaway: The Wildlife (Protection) Act was implemented in 1972 to ensure the protection of India's flora and fauna and to establish a network of ecologically important protected areas.