<h1>India reports 2,701 wildlife crime cases (2020-2024) with decline; enforcement under Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 strengthened</h1> India recorded 2,701 wildlife crime cases from 2020 to 2024, with a notable decline each year, according to government data. The highest incidences were reported in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, state governments and Union Territories hold primary responsibility for wildlife conservation and preventing illegal trafficking. The Wild Life Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) coordinates enforcement, intelligence sharing, and international cooperation, including with INTERPOL and UN agencies. India, as a CITES signatory, integrated its provisions into domestic law through a 2022 amendment. The WCCB has conducted extensive training and awareness programs and established regional offices to enhance enforcement. The government emphasizes joint operations, surveillance, and sensitization of border forces to combat organized wildlife crime and protect biodiversity.