Context:

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has recently urged India to halt the import of critically endangered species such as gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and snow leopards until proper regulatory safeguards are in place.

Background:

• • A technical mission from the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Secretariat visited India from 15 to 20  September 2025 to inspect the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) and the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), both part of the Vantara initiative in Jamnagar, Gujarat. 
  • The visit was triggered by concerns raised by other CITES member countries regarding the large volume and origin of endangered wild animals being imported into India, many destined for these facilities.

Key findings of the verification mission:

The report did raise significant concerns about India's due diligence in verifying the source of the imported animals. It was noted that while all imports had valid CITES permits, questions remained about the animals' true origin and the accuracy of the source codes used (e.g., falsely declaring wild-caught animals as captive-bred).

CITES and India’s obligations:

CITES is a multilateral treaty adopted in 1973 and came into force in 1975.

·        Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

·        It currently covers tens of thousands of species (animals and plants) under various Appendices (Appendix I, II, III) depending on degree of threat and trade regulation required.

·        India acceded to CITES in 1976, designating national authorities responsible for issuing import and export permits.

·        Under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, no zoo can acquire, sell, or transfer wild or captive animals except from or to a recognised zoo, making strict due diligence essential in wildlife imports.

Recommendations from the CITES mission:

·         India should strengthen due diligence for wildlife imports.

·         Verify the origin and legality of animals, especially from countries not known for breeding the species.

·         Exercise caution even when CITES permits are provided, ensuring specimens were traded legally.

·         Provide in-country support for animals in peril, allowing more time for verification.

Conclusion:

The CITES verification mission highlights the urgent need for a cautious approach to wildlife imports. India must ensure that all imported animals are genuinely captive-bred and legally sourced. This requires rigorous coordination between national CITES authorities, customs, and zoological institutions.