LAHORE (Kashmir English): The Punjab Wildlife Department has launched a drive to register big cats as part of a broader effort to curb the illegal wildlife trade.
The move will regulate the ownership of big cats, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and jaguars, making registration mandatory for private owners across the province.
The government has asked all big cat owners to declare their animals within 30 days or face strict legal action.
The provincial government has unveiled a digital registration system through the PAWS App, available on the Google Play Store, to streamline the process.
Owners are required to submit details such as animal’s species, age, and location where it is being kept.
The government believes that the move will help curb the illegal wildlife trade, enhance public safety, and ensure compliance with international animal welfare standards.
Failure to register the animals within the stipulated time will lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years and hefty fines. Any unregistered animal will also be confiscated.
Punjab Wildlife Act
Punjab has amended the 1974 Wildlife Act, classifying big cats under Schedule II, which mandates a licencing process. Licences will only be issued to individuals who meet globally benchmarked criteria for ownership.
Officials have warned that keeping a big cat without proper documentation is now a non-bailable offence.
The decision will also curb the growing trend in the country; public display of lions.
In recent years, concerns have risen over private individuals housing dangerous animals without adequate safety measures, posing risks to both the public and the animals.
