Illegal Wildlife Trafficking

Illegal wildlife trafficking stands as one of the most widespread forms of transnational environmental crimes, fueled by the lucrative demand for exotic pets, traditional medicines, and luxury goods. India, with its abundant biodiversity and iconic species like the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and one-horned rhinoceros, is especially susceptible to poaching and trafficking.Footnote ⁹ This illicit trade not only devastates populations of endangered species but also disrupts ecosystems, fosters corruption, and undermines conservation efforts. Furthermore, it poses public health risks by facilitating the spread of zoonotic diseases such as COVID-19, Ebola, and SARS.Footnote ¹⁰

Illicit Logging and Timber Smuggling

Other major transnational environmental crimes are illicit logging and timber smuggling, which drive deforestation, habitat destruction, and global biodiversity loss. India’s forests, from the dense rainforests of the Western Ghats to the mangrove ecosystems of the Sundarbans, face relentless threats from illegal logging activities. These crimes not only degrade valuable ecosystems but also exacerbate climate change by releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and disrupting the global carbon cycle. Moreover, they fuel conflicts, undermine Indigenous rights, and perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality in forest-dependent communities.

The dashboard from the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) shows timber incident data in India between 1990 and 2024. It displays 901 total incidents across various timber species, with Myanmar Teak and Rosewood being significant. The visual charts track incidents over time, revealing peaks between 2014 and 2015, and 2020 and 2022. The data represents over 30 million kilograms and 4,852 cubic meters of timber, organized by species category and type. A donut chart breaks down timber by Harmonized System (HS) code,Footnote ¹¹ showing the predominance of Rosewood (4403) and Sawnwood (4407). The interface includes multiple filters for analyzing illegal timber trade patterns in India.Footnote ¹²

Illegal Fishing and Marine Pollution

Illegal fishing and marine pollution pose significant challenges to India’s marine ecosystems and coastal communities. The country’s extensive coastline and maritime territories face threats from overfishing, destructive practices, and various forms of pollution. These activities not only jeopardize marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries management but also impact food security, economic stability, and the well-being of coastal populations.

Compounding these issues is a critical lack of comprehensive data and assessment frameworks. This knowledge gap became evident in July 2022 when India’s Union Fisheries Minister addressed questions in the Rajya Sabha regarding the economic impact of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The minister’s response highlighted two crucial points: Firstly, at that time, India had not yet established its own specific definitions or evaluation criteria for IUU fishing. The minister explained that countries typically determine IUU fishing based on their own legal and regulatory frameworks. Secondly, the government lacked precise data on how IUU fishing affects India’s economy. Instead, the minister referenced global estimates from independent researchers, suggesting economic losses between $US26 billion and $US50 billion worldwide due to illegal catches.Footnote ¹³

This information vacuum presents a significant obstacle to effective policymaking and enforcement. Without a clear understanding of the scale and impact of IUU fishing within Indian waters, it becomes challenging to develop targeted strategies and allocate resources efficiently. The absence of India-specific data also makes it difficult to assess the effectiveness of existing measures and to justify new initiatives.

Addressing these data and definitional gaps is crucial for India to strengthen its approach to combating IUU fishing and protecting its marine resources. Developing robust monitoring systems, conducting comprehensive assessments, and establishing clear national parameters for IUU fishing would enable more informed decision-making and more effective conservation efforts.

Illicit Waste Dumping and Pollution

Transnational environmental crimes extend beyond illegal fishing to include illicit waste dumping and pollution, which pose severe threats to India’s environment and public health. As India experiences rapid population growth and industrial expansion, the country faces significant challenges in managing hazardous waste disposal effectively.Footnote ¹⁴

The illegal dumping of electronic waste, hazardous chemicals, and industrial pollutants has far-reaching consequences. These practices not only contaminate water bodies and soil but also endanger public health through the pollution of food and drinking water sources. Moreover, this form of environmental crime often disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating existing social inequalities and perpetuating environmental injustice.Footnote ¹⁵

Recent data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) sheds light on the scale of India’s waste management challenges. In 2021, the country generated approximately 160,039 tons of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) per day, averaging about 0.119 kilograms per person daily. While a significant portion of this waste (95.4%) was collected and transported to disposal sites, the treatment and processing of this waste remains inadequate.Footnote ¹⁶

The CPCB report reveals that only half of the collected waste (50%) underwent proper treatment before disposal. A concerning 18.4% was directly dumped in landfills without any processing. Most alarmingly, nearly a third of the total waste (31.7%) was unaccounted for, suggesting potential illegal dumping or improper disposal.Footnote ¹⁷

These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved waste management infrastructure and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations in India. The substantial amount of untreated and unaccounted-for waste poses significant risks to both the environment and public health, potentially contributing to transnational environmental crimes if not addressed effectively.

Tackling these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including enhancing waste treatment facilities, improving monitoring and tracking systems, and fostering greater public awareness about proper waste disposal practices. Additionally, strengthening international cooperation to combat transboundary waste trafficking and illegal dumping is crucial in addressing this complex environmental challenge.Footnote ¹⁸

Impact on Global Climate Change

Building on the interconnections between transnational environmental crimes and climate change, it is crucial to address another related issue: the depletion of the ozone layer. The illegal trade in ozone-depleting substances (ODS) continues to pose a significant threat, despite international efforts to phase out these chemicals under the Montreal Protocol. This landmark agreement, signed in 1987, has been largely successful in reducing the production and consumption of ODS.Footnote ¹⁹ However, the persistence of illegal trade undermines these efforts and contributes to both ozone depletion and climate change, as many ODS are also potent greenhouse gases.

The scale of this problem is illustrated by historical data from India, a country that has faced significant challenges in combating the illegal ODS trade. Over a period of approximately fourteen months, spanning from 1999 to early 2000, India experienced a substantial influx of illegally imported ODS.Footnote ²⁰ The volume of these smuggled substances was estimated to be around 880 tons, representing a significant portion—approximately 12%—of the country’s total national consumption during that time.Footnote ²¹

This illicit trade was facilitated in part by India’s geographical position, with neighboring countries such as Nepal and Bangladesh playing key roles in the smuggling networks. Understanding these regional dynamics is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat the illegal ODS trade.Footnote ²²

These historical figures underscore the persistent nature of transnational environmental crimes and their potential to undermine international environmental agreements. They also highlight the need for continued vigilance, improved monitoring systems, and strengthened cross-border cooperation to effectively tackle the illegal trade in ODS and other environmentally harmful substances.

Therefore, transnational environmental crimes present a multifaceted and pressing challenge that necessitates coordinated efforts at the local, national, and international levels. Whether through illegal wildlife trafficking, illicit logging, unlawful fishing, or marine pollution, these crimes significantly impede biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation. India, endowed with a rich natural heritage, burgeoning economic influence, and increasing global prominence, is pivotal in combating these environmental crimes and advancing sustainability and resilience for future generations.

The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

One of India’s landmark pieces of environmental legislation is the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, which stands as the principal legal framework for conserving and safeguarding wildlife and their habitats.Footnote ²³ Prompted by escalating threats such as rampant poaching and habitat destruction, the act provides a comprehensive framework for the protection, preservation, and management of wildlife species listed in Schedules I through VI. The law forbids hunting, poaching, trading, and possessing specified wild animals and their derivatives, instituting severe penalties and sanctions for infractions. Additionally, the act empowers both central and state governments to create protected areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks, thereby safeguarding critical habitats and ecosystems.

The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

Complementing the Wildlife (Protection) Act, the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 aims to regulate and limit the conversion of forestland for non-forest purposes, including mining, industrial development, and infrastructure projects.Footnote ²⁴ Acknowledging the critical role of forests in maintaining ecological stability, water conservation, and climate regulation, the act requires prior approval from the central government for any proposal that involves diverting forestland. This rigorous regulatory framework strives to balance the demands of development with the need for conservation, ensuring the sustainable management of forest resources and the protection of biodiversity hotspots.

The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986

The Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 is a cornerstone of India’s environmental governance, granting the central government significant authority to safeguard and enhance environmental quality.Footnote ²⁵ This act offers a broad regulatory framework for managing pollution, controlling hazardous substances, and fostering sustainable development across various sectors, including air quality, water pollution, and environmental impact assessments. It empowers the central government to issue notifications, set standards, and establish guidelines aimed at preventing environmental degradation and encouraging eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the act created the National Green Tribunal (NGT), a specialized judicial body tasked with resolving environmental disputes and enforcing environmental legislation.Footnote ²⁶

The Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2019

Given India’s extensive coastline and rich marine biodiversity, the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2019, assumes critical significance in protecting coastal ecosystems, regulating coastal development, and safeguarding coastal communities from the impacts of climate change.Footnote ²⁷ The notification delineates coastal areas into various zones based on ecological sensitivity, vulnerability, and developmental pressures, imposing restrictions on activities like construction, mining, and industrial operations within designated coastal regulation zones. By integrating principles of sustainable coastal management, biodiversity conservation, and disaster risk reduction, the notification aims to promote resilient coastal ecosystems and enhance the adaptive capacity of coastal communities in the face of sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

The Biological Diversity Act, 2002

Recognizing the intrinsic value of biological diversity and the need for its conservation and sustainable use, India enacted the Biological Diversity Act of 2002 to provide a legal framework for the conservation, sustainable utilization, and equitable sharing of benefits derived from biodiversity resources.Footnote ²⁸ The act establishes mechanisms for the protection of biodiversity-rich areas, conservation of threatened species, and documentation of traditional knowledge associated with biodiversity. Moreover, it mandates the establishment of Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) at the local level to facilitate community participation in biodiversity conservation and promote sustainable livelihoods based on traditional ecological knowledge.Footnote ²⁹

In conclusion, India’s legislative framework for environmental protection and conservation reflects a comprehensive and evolving response to the challenges posed by transnational environmental crimes and unsustainable development practices. Through landmark legislation such as the Wildlife (Protection) Act, Forest (Conservation) Act, Environment (Protection) Act, Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, and Biological Diversity Act, India seeks to strengthen regulatory mechanisms, enhance enforcement capacities, and foster sustainable development pathways that reconcile the imperatives of economic growth with the imperatives of environmental sustainability. However, the effective implementation and enforcement of these laws remain essential for realizing India’s vision of becoming a global guardian in combating transnational environmental crimes and preserving its natural heritage for future generations.

Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB)

At the forefront of India’s efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking stands the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), a specialized law enforcement agency tasked with the prevention, detection, and investigation of wildlife crimes across the country. Established in 2007 under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the WCCB operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and collaborates closely with state forest departments, wildlife authorities, and other law enforcement agencies.Footnote ³⁰ The bureau comprises dedicated units focusing on intelligence gathering, surveillance, enforcement operations, and capacity building, with a mandate to tackle organized wildlife crime syndicates and dismantle illegal trade networksFootnote ³¹. Through strategic partnerships and engagements with international agencies and instruments such as INTERPOL, CITES, and the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC), the WCCB strengthens global cooperation in combating transnational wildlife trafficking and promoting wildlife conservation.

Forest Protection Forces

In addition to the WCCB, India’s forest protection forces play a crucial role in combating illegal logging, timber smuggling, and encroachment in forest areas. Each state forest department maintains specialized units of forest protection forces, comprising forest guards, foresters, and officers tasked with patrolling forested areas, enforcing forest laws, and apprehending offenders engaged in illegal logging and timber trade.Footnote ³² Equipped with training, equipment, and legal powers to conduct raids and seizures, these forest protection forces act as front-line defenders of India’s forest resources, working tirelessly to protect critical habitats, biodiversity hotspots, and ecological corridors from illicit exploitation and destruction.Footnote ³³

Coastal Security Mechanism

Given India’s vast coastline and maritime territories, coastal security assumes paramount importance in combating transnational environmental crimes such as illegal fishing, marine pollution, and coastal habitat destruction. The Indian Coast Guard, a multi-mission maritime organization under the Ministry of Defence, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests, protecting coastal ecosystems, and enforcing maritime laws. Through patrols, surveillance operations, and interagency coordination, the Coast Guard monitors maritime activities, detects illegal fishing vessels, and apprehends perpetrators engaged in illegal activities within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)Footnote ³⁴ and territorial waters. Moreover, the Coast Guard collaborates with state maritime police, port authorities, and coastal communities to enhance maritime security, promote sustainable fisheries management, and combat marine pollution.Footnote ³⁵

Customs and Border Control

India’s customs and border control agencies play a crucial role in preventing the illicit trafficking of wildlife, timber, and hazardous substances across international borders. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), and the Border Security Force (BSF) work in tandem to monitor cross-border movements, intercept illegal shipments, and apprehend smugglers involved in transnational environmental crimes. Leveraging intelligence, technology, and international cooperation, these agencies strengthen border security, disrupt illicit supply chains, and enforce stringent customs regulations to combat wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, and illicit trade in hazardous substances.Footnote ³⁶

National Green Tribunal (NGT)

In addition to specialized task forces and enforcement agencies, India’s judicial system plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with environmental laws, adjudicating environmental disputes, and holding violators accountable for environmental crimes. The NGT,Footnote ³⁷ established under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986, serves as a specialized judicial body for the expeditious disposal of environmental cases and enforcement of environmental laws.Footnote ³⁸ The NGT has the authority to hear cases related to environmental clearance, pollution control, biodiversity conservation, and forest conservation, issuing orders and judgments to prevent environmental degradation, restore ecosystems, and impose penalties on offenders.Footnote ³⁹

Therefore, India’s efforts to combat transnational environmental crimes are bolstered by specialized task forces, enforcement agencies, and judicial mechanisms dedicated to protecting its natural heritage and promoting sustainable development. From the WCCB and forest protection forces to coastal security agencies and customs authorities, India’s multilayered approach to enforcement reflects its commitment to global environmental stewardship and collective action against illicit activities that threaten the planet’s ecological balance. As India continues to strengthen its enforcement capacities, foster international cooperation, and promote public awareness, it emerges as a key player in the global fight against transnational environmental crimes, safeguarding biodiversity and promoting sustainable development for future generations.

Operation Wildnet: A Comprehensive Analysis of India’s Evolving Strategy Against Wildlife Crime

Operation Wildnet represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts to combat wildlife crime, particularly in response to the evolving nature of illegal wildlife trade in the digital age. The operation’s history can be traced through three distinct phases, each building upon the lessons and successes of its predecessor.Footnote ⁴⁵

Operation Wildnet I (2015–16)

The initial Operation Wildnet, conducted over several months in 2015–16, marked a turning point in India’s approach to wildlife crime enforcement. This operation primarily targeted a major tiger poaching network operating across multiple states in central India, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.Footnote ⁴⁶

Key elements of this operation included the following:

1. 1. Multistate coordination: The operation demonstrated unprecedented collaboration between forest departments and law enforcement agencies from multiple states.

2. 2. Intelligence gathering: Extensive undercover operations and informant networks were crucial to the operation’s success.

3. 3. Advanced technology: The use of sophisticated surveillance techniques and forensic analysis helped track and identify poachers.

4. 4. International cooperation: The operation extended beyond national borders, involving international agencies to trace the global connections of the poaching network.

The results were significant:

• • over thirty arrests, including key members of the poaching network;

• • seizure of tiger parts (skins, bones) and poaching equipment;

• • disruption of a major supply chain for tiger parts destined for international markets; and

• • identification of new poaching techniques and trade routes.Footnote ⁴⁷

Operation Wildnet II (September 2019)

Building on the success of the first operation, Operation Wildnet II shifted focus to address the growing threat of the online wildlife trade. This operation, launched in September 2019, represented a strategic adaptation to the changing landscape of wildlife crime.Footnote ⁴⁸

Key developments in this phase included the following:

• • identification of numerous e-commerce sites, online trade portals, and social media platforms used for wildlife trafficking;

• • engagement with major online platforms (for example, OLX, Quikr, Amazon, Snapdeal) to discuss issues related to online illegal wildlife trade; and

• • development of mechanisms for information sharing between online trade portals and enforcement agencies.

This operation marked a significant shift towards addressing the digital dimension of wildlife crime, recognizing the internet as a major facilitator of the illegal wildlife trade.Footnote ⁴⁹

Operation Wildnet III (July 1–September 30, 2020)

The third iteration of Operation Wildnet, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, further refined the approach to combating online wildlife crime. This operation was particularly significant given the increased reliance on digital platforms during global lockdowns.Footnote ⁵⁰

Key features of Operation Wildnet III included the following:

• • extensive cyber patrolling across social media platforms, e-commerce sites, and other online spaces;

• • detection of a wide range of wildlife products being traded online, from live animals to animal parts;

• • a focus on YouTube channels depicting illegal wildlife activities;

• • collaboration with state enforcement agencies to act on intelligence gathered from online sources; and

• • incorporation of education and outreach components, including online training programs and webinars.

The operation resulted in twenty-six criminal cases, forty-five arrests, and the seizure of various wildlife products. It also led to the arrest of five YouTube channel operators involved in promoting illegal wildlife activities.Footnote ⁵¹

Analysis and Significance

The evolution of Operation Wildnet from a targeted anti-poaching initiative to a comprehensive strategy against online wildlife crime reflects India’s adaptability in the face of changing criminal tactics. This evolution aligns with global trends in wildlife crime enforcement, which increasingly recognizes the need for digital literacy and technological capabilities in modern law enforcement.Footnote ⁵²

Several key aspects of Operation Wildnet demonstrate its significance in the fight against transnational environmental crimes:

1. 1. Adaptive Strategy: The operation’s evolution shows a proactive approach to addressing emerging threats, particularly in the digital sphere. This adaptability is crucial in combating wildlife crime, which is known for its dynamic nature.Footnote ⁵³

2. 2. Multiagency Collaboration: The consistent emphasis on coordination among various agencies, both domestically and internationally, highlights the importance of a unified approach to transnational environmental crimes.

3. 3. Technology Integration: The increasing use of advanced surveillance techniques, forensic analysis, and cyber patrolling demonstrates the critical role of technology in modern wildlife crime enforcement.

4. 4. Private Sector Engagement: The involvement of e-commerce platforms and internet companies in later phases of the operation reflects a growing recognition of the private sector’s role in combating wildlife cybercrime.

5. 5. Education and Awareness: The incorporation of training programs and public awareness initiatives in Operation Wildnet IIIFootnote ⁵⁴ shows a holistic approach that combines enforcement with prevention strategies.

However, the persistent detection of online wildlife crime throughout these operations also highlights ongoing challenges. The diversity of platforms and species involved in illegal trade underscores the complexity of the issue and the need for continued innovation in enforcement strategies.

Case Study: E-Waste Management and Illegal Dumping in India

India has emerged as a major destination for e-waste, both domestically generated and illegally imported from developed countries. The country’s e-waste management efforts, including the implementation of the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016,Footnote ⁵⁵ provide a compelling case study of the challenges in addressing a complex transnational environmental issue.

India’s e-waste challenge is twofold, stemming from both domestic generation and illegal imports. The country produced approximately 3.23 million metric tons of e-waste in 2019, a figure expected to grow substantially in the coming years.Footnote ⁵⁶ To address this issue, India implemented the E-Waste (Management) Rules in 2016,Footnote ⁵⁷ with subsequent amendments in 2018. These regulations introduced the concept of extended producer responsibility (EPR), making manufacturers responsible for collecting and recycling e-waste.Footnote ⁵⁸

The regulatory framework aims to formalize the e-waste recycling sector, traditionally dominated by informal operators. However, the implementation of these rules has faced significant challenges, particularly in integrating the informal sector and ensuring compliance with EPR guidelines.Footnote ⁵⁹

Challenges in Implementation

Despite the comprehensive regulatory framework, several challenges hinder effective e-waste management in India:

1. 1. Limited formal recycling infrastructure: Only a small percentage (estimated at less than 20%) of e-waste is recycled through formal channels,Footnote ⁶⁰ highlighting the significant gap in proper recycling facilities.Footnote ⁶¹

2. 2. Informal sector dominance: The informal sector continues to handle a large portion of e-waste, often using rudimentary and hazardous recycling methods. Efforts to integrate this sector into the formal system have met with limited success.Footnote ⁶²

3. 3. Illegal imports: Despite regulations, India continues to receive illegal shipments of e-waste disguised as secondhand goods, complicating enforcement efforts.

4. 4. Low public awareness: There is a general lack of awareness among consumers about proper e-waste disposal methods, leading to improper handling and disposal.Footnote ⁶³

5. 5. EPR enforcement challenges: Monitoring and enforcing compliance with EPR guidelines has proven difficult, with many producers failing to meet their obligations.Footnote ⁶⁴

These challenges are interconnected and require a multifaceted approach to address them effectively.

Progress and Initiatives

Despite these challenges, India has made notable progress in addressing its e-waste management issues:

1. 1. Establishment of collection centers: The government has supported the creation of e-waste collection centers across the country, facilitating proper disposal.Footnote ⁶⁵

2. 2. Awareness campaigns: The Central Pollution Control Board has launched various awareness campaigns to educate the public about proper e-waste disposal.Footnote ⁶⁶

3. 3. Capacity building: Programs have been initiated to train informal sector workers in safe recycling practices, aiming to improve both environmental and occupational safety.Footnote ⁶⁷

4. 4. Technological solutions: Efforts are underway to implement tracking and monitoring technologies to improve the management of e-waste flows.Footnote ⁶⁸

Significance and International Context

India’s e-waste management efforts highlight the complexities of addressing transnational environmental issues in a rapidly developing economy. The case underscores the challenges of implementing regulations in a sector with deeply entrenched informal practices and transboundary dimensions. Moreover, this case study demonstrates the need for international cooperation in addressing e-waste trafficking. As a significant destination for illegal e-waste imports, India’s efforts to curb this practice have implications for global waste management policies.Footnote ⁶⁹

Therefore, India’s approach to e-waste management, while facing significant challenges, represents a crucial step towards addressing a complex environmental and public health issue. The country’s experience offers valuable lessons for other developing nations grappling with similar challenges. However, the persistence of informal recycling practices and illegal imports underscores the need for continued efforts to strengthen enforcement, improve infrastructure, and enhance international cooperation in combating transnational environmental crimes related to e-waste.

As India continues to refine its approach to e-waste management, the effectiveness of its regulatory framework and implementation strategies will have significant implications for global efforts to address the growing challenge of electronic waste in an increasingly digital world.

Amending the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

A critical step for India is to amend the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 to address emerging challenges in wildlife trafficking. Firstly, specific amendments should include incorporating provisions to criminalize the possession and trade of digital content promoting illegal wildlife trade, such as poaching tutorials or online marketplaces for protected species, and expanding the definition of “wildlife” to include a broader range of species, particularly those threatened by emerging trafficking trends. Stricter penalties for repeat offenders and organized crime syndicates involved in wildlife trafficking should be introduced, and specialized wildlife crime courts should be established to expedite the prosecution of environmental crimes. These amendments would strengthen India’s legal framework encompassing wildlife-related crimes, aligning it with contemporary challenges highlighted in operations like Wildnet.

Enhancing Transboundary Cooperation through SAARC

India should take a leading role in strengthening environmental crime prevention within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)Footnote ⁷⁰ framework by proposing a SAARC Convention on Cooperation on the Environment,Footnote ⁷¹ which would harmonize laws and enforcement procedures across member States. India should also take a leading role in establishing a SAARC Environmental Crime Task Force to facilitate intelligence sharing and enable joint operations against cross-border environmental crimes. Additionally, developing a regional database of environmental offenders and trafficking routes accessible to law enforcement agencies across SAARC nations would address the transnational nature of these crimes in the region, leveraging India’s diplomatic influence for collective action.Footnote ⁷²

Implementing the Basel Convention More Effectively

To combat illegal e-waste dumping and improve e-waste management, India should focus on a more effective implementation of the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal. This could be accomplished by amending the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016,Footnote ⁷³ to introduce stricter penalties for illegal e-waste imports. This could be accomplished by establishing specialized e-waste forensic laboratories at major ports to enhance the detection of disguised e-waste shipments and implementing a mandatory EPR system with clear targets and penalties for non-compliance, thus addressing the challenges highlighted in the e-waste management case study. These measures would significantly strengthen India’s ability to control illegal e-waste imports and improve domestic e-waste management.

Enhancing the Implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) through Legislative Reform

To bolster India’s compliance with CITES, India should enact a stand-alone CITES Implementation Act that clearly delineates the roles and responsibilities of various agencies in enforcing CITES provisions. The new act should introduce provisions for confiscating assets derived from illegal wildlife trade in alignment with international best practices and establish a national electronic permit system for CITES-listed species to enhance tracking and reduce trade permit forgeries. These reforms would significantly strengthen India’s legal framework for CITES implementation, addressing gaps identified in recent wildlife crime operations.

By focusing on these specific legal and policy strategies, India can enhance its role as a global leader in combating transnational environmental crimes, addressing key challenges identified in recent enforcement operations and case studies. These targeted measures would provide a roadmap for concrete action, moving beyond generic approaches to address the unique challenges India faces in its fight against environmental crimes.