Union Govt Withdraws Draft Livestock Bill After Protests
Recently, the government has withdrawn the draft “The Livestock and Livestock Products ((Importation and Exportation) Bill, 2023” in view of concerns expressed by animal rights activists.
- In such a situation, the existing Livestock Importation Act, 1898 and Livestock Importation (Amendment) Act, 2001 regulating livestock will continue to be applicable.
Features of Livestock Importation Act, 1898:
- Under this law, the central government is empowered to regulate, limit or prohibit the import of any such livestock, which can spread infection.
- The power to implement the Government order in this regard has been delegated to the Customs authorities.
- State Governments can also make rules regarding imported livestock within their jurisdiction.
- The Act was last amended in 2001. The definition of livestock products was changed by the amendment. Also, the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962 were also included in it.
Why is there a need for a new law to replace the 1898 Act?
- The 1898 law regulates only the import of livestock. It does not include provisions relating to exports.
- It does not contain the power to make provisions relating to the promotion and development of the export of livestock and livestock products.
- It gives a limited definition of livestock. Feline and dog species animals (Canine) are not included in the scope of its definition.
- It is necessary to change this law to curb zoonotic diseases spread by import and export of any infectious livestock.
Source – Indian Express
