Authorities in Punjab have introduced new regulations to control the rising population of lions and other big cats, with a focus on sterilization. Under the new law, all breeding farms must register their animals, with a Rs. 50,000 fee per big cat.
Buying and selling lions and cubs is strictly banned, and using them for social media videos will lead to legal action. The law applies to lions, tigers, pumas, cheetahs, and jaguars.
Owners who fail to register their animals will have them confiscated. Breeding farms that exceed the allowed number of lions cannot sell them but may donate them to zoos or other registered facilities. Gifting big cats is also prohibited.
To discourage private ownership, the government has introduced a phase-out plan. Owners have 15 days to report their animals, followed by mandatory registration. Post-registration, strict housing standards must be met.
Breeding will be limited, and farm owners will be required to sterilize their animals to prevent further population growth. Keeping big cats at home will no longer be permitted, and unregistered animals will be seized.
Authorities will impose heavy fines and take legal action against violators. Wildlife officials estimate Punjab has 200 to 300 big cats, and registration fees will help track and regulate their population.
Should start with the biggest lion in Punjab