If a particular plant species is placed under Schedule VI of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, what is the implication?
A
A licence is required to cultivate that plant.
B
Such a plant cannot be cultivated under any circumstances.
C
It is a Genetically Modified crop plant.
D
Such a plant is invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.
Correct Answer: Option A
Explanation
1. The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 provides varying degrees of protection to flora and fauna.
2. Schedule VI of the Act specifically lists certain endemic plant species that are prohibited from being cultivated, possessed, sold, or transported without authorization.
3. Section 17A of the Act prohibits picking, uprooting, etc., of specified plants.
4. Section 17D explicitly states that no person shall cultivate a specified plant except under and in accordance with a licence granted by the competent authority.
5. Therefore, the primary implication of placing a plant species under Schedule VI is that a licence is required to cultivate that plant.
6. Option (B) is incorrect because cultivation is possible with a licence.
7. Option (C) is irrelevant; the Act does not deal with Genetically Modified status.
8. Option (D) is incorrect; Schedule VI aims to protect the listed plants, not declare them invasive.