The major highlight of the 5th Amendment of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2029

The National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act was promulgated in 2029, which had brought paramount changes regarding the conservation and protection of wildlife and their habitats. In the very beginning, Nepal followed the Yellowstone model, which more importantly emphasized the protection of flagship species and their habitats. As a result, Chitwan National Park was established in 2030 primarily focusing on the conservation of One Horned Rhinocerous and Tiger. Eventually, other national parks were also established giving higher priority to species-focused conservation like Baridya National Park for Tiger conservation in 2032 and so on. However, with the passing time, the modality of conservation was to be reviewed, so addressing this need, The National Park and Wildlife Conservation Act had amendments in the different time periods for five times. 

The 5th amendment poses special attention as it has made some terrific provisions concerning wildlife conservation and protection. Firstly, the management of wildlife corridors is an important input it has made. Increasing construction of linear infrastructure, population growth, and developmental works have resulted in the fragmentation of wildlife habitats. It has impeded the movement of animals and is forced to be confined within the narrow habitat which causes in loss of genetic diversity due to genetic drift. Corridors connect fragmented habitats thereby easing the flow of animals which will eventually reduce the severity of genetic drift while maintaining genetic diversity.

It has made a provision of wildlife farming, breeding, and research of various wild animals, reptiles, and amphibians. The person or any organization who wishes to start wildlife farming can easily begin their business after permission taken from the Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation. The major purpose behind the formulation of this provision is to enhance the livelihood of local people through the farming of wildlife, however, the policy doesn't look supportive to marginalized communities.  However, some wildlife conservationists widely criticize this provision accusing, unless we don't have good monitoring mechanisms, this will further increase the possibility of wildlife poaching and illegal trading.

The provision of providing animals for research and educational exhibitions would allow national and international scientists and researchers to investigate the various aspects of animals and their habitat. It will yield evidence and findings regarding the status, ecology, habitat, and threats of the concerned species and will assist in carrying out research-based management and protection activities. 

The provision of the establishment of zoos, wildlife rescue centers, and wildlife hospital is another positive input of the 5th amendment. Similarly, the person who illegally stores, transport, and sell wildlife's body parts of protected species is fined up to Rs. 10 Lakhs and sentenced to 15-year jail or both. 

The provisions made in the 5th amendment of NPWC act 2029 are strongly inclined towards the protection and conservation of wildlife and their habitat.