• Beena Kumari
• Shalini Roy

Wildlife conservation in India represents a critical intersection of ecological sustainability, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development. India, with its vast and diverse ecosystems ranging from the Himalayas to coastal wetlands, harbors nearly 7–8% of the world’s known flora and fauna, making it one of the most biodiverse countries globally. However, this biological wealth faces mounting threats from rapid urbanization, deforestation, habitat fragmentation, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. Although the country has implemented a strong legal and institutional framework, including the Wildlife Protection Act (1972), Project Tiger, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves, enforcement remains inconsistent, and conservation outcomes are often undermined by anthropogenic pressures and competing developmental priorities. Key issues include the shrinking of natural habitats due to infrastructure expansion, illegal wildlife trade, and the depletion of traditional ecological knowledge that once facilitated coexistence between humans and nature. Challenges are further compounded by climate-induced stresses such as altered species distributions and ecosystem imbalances. Community participation in conservation efforts has received increased recognition, yet socio-economic dependence on forest resources frequently generates conflict between local livelihoods and preservation goals. Balancing these interests requires inclusive policies that integrate conservation with sustainable development, alongside improved monitoring, stricter law enforcement, and scientific research. Addressing the challenges of wildlife conservation in India ultimately demands a multi-pronged strategy that unites government agencies, scientific institutions, local communities, and international stakeholders. By reinforcing legal frameworks, promoting environmental education, encouraging community stewardship, and employing modern conservation technologies, India can safeguard its natural heritage while fostering ecological resilience. The success of wildlife conservation will significantly influence not only the nation’s biodiversity security but also its environmental stability and cultural continuity in the decades to come.

Wildlife, Threats, Challenges, Legislative and Policy framework, India.

"Wildlife at the Crossroads: Threats, Key issues and Legislative and Policy Framework in India and how do recent Amendments impact Wildlife Protection Laws in India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 9, page no.e375-e381, September-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2509442.pdf

"Wildlife at the Crossroads: Threats, Key issues and Legislative and Policy Framework in India and how do recent Amendments impact Wildlife Protection Laws in India", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 9, page no. ppe375-e381, September-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2509442.pdf