Kolkata: In a significant move, the West Bengal government is on the verge of implementing a complete ban on keeping Indian bird species as pets in households.

According to the state's Forest Minister, Jyotipriyo Mullick, this ban could take effect as early as August.

"The upcoming law will enact a comprehensive prohibition on keeping any Indian bird species as pets. Violators will be subject to punishment, and competent authorities will take strict action," stated Mullick.

However, the Minister did mention certain exceptions, allowing the keeping of foreign bird species as pets under specific conditions.

"In the case of foreign species, there will still be numerous restrictions. These birds can only be kept as pets for breeding purposes, and the owners must obtain a license, which requires a registration fee of Rs 15,000," he added.

Mullick emphasized that even for foreign species, there would be regulations to adhere to for their proper maintenance.

"Owners will not be permitted to exhibit these birds in public or sell them in the open market. Before taking legal action against those who currently have Indian bird species as pets, my department will conduct an extensive awareness campaign to educate the public on the dos and don'ts," he explained.

An official from the state Forest Department revealed that keeping Indian birds as pets is already prohibited under Indian law across the entire country.

"However, this law is not widely known, and many households still keep birds, especially parrots, as pets. It is crucial for the government to enforce this regulation effectively, which is why this new state law is being introduced," the official added.

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