According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law? 1. Gharial 2. Indian wild ass 3. Wild buffalo Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, provides absolute protection to animals listed in Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II. These animals cannot be hunted by any person except under specific provisions provided by law (like permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden if the animal poses a threat to human life). 2. Statement 1: Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is listed in Schedule I of the Act and thus receives the highest degree of protection. 3. Statement 2: The Indian wild ass (Equus hemionus khur) is also listed in Schedule I of the Act, granting it maximum protection. 4. Statement 3: The Wild buffalo (Bubalus arnee), also known as the Asiatic Wild Water Buffalo, is listed in Schedule I of the Act, ensuring its protection from hunting. 5. Since all three animals are covered under Schedule I, they cannot be hunted except under legally specified circumstances. Therefore, all three statements are correct.