Q1. With reference to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), consider the following statements:
- Inclusion of a species in CITES Appendix I permits unrestricted international commercial trade provided the exporting country issues the necessary permit.
- CITES Appendix II includes species that may become threatened with extinction unless their international trade is regulated.
- A species can be listed in Appendix III only if it is already listed in Appendix I or Appendix II.
- CITES automatically requires every confiscated specimen of a listed species to be returned to the country constituting its natural range.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Appendix I species are subject to the strictest controls, and international commercial trade is generally prohibited, subject to limited exceptions.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Appendix II covers species that may become threatened unless international trade is regulated and controlled.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Appendix III can include a species at the request of a country in which the species is protected; prior inclusion in Appendix I or II is not required.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: CITES does not automatically mandate repatriation. Authorities may consider origin, animal welfare, conservation implications and feasibility.
