Odisha makes critical changes to STATE WILDLIFE PROTECTION RULES to bolster enforcement

MID challenges of poor conviction rate in forest and wildlife related offences, the state government has amended the existing Wildlife (Protection) (Odisha) Rules - 1974, introducing critical changes to enhance the enforcement of wildlife laws and ensure swift action against offenders.

- SUDARSAN MAHARANA @ Bhubaneswar

The amended rules now include at least 10 new standardised forms for investigation of offences related to wildlife crimes and are designed to streamline documentation and follow-up procedures for forest and wildlife authorities. Among the newly introduced forms are a seizure list, carcass details, search warrant form, and an offence list — tools that will help in systematically recording and tracking wildlife crime cases.