“ The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated” – Mahatma Gandhi
Introduction
The practice of hunting was prevalent in ancient times. Where some hunted for livelihood while some (mostly the regal society) hunted wild animals and; used them as trophies to boast about it as it was considered as a status symbol and a mark of respect. In modern times this practice is addressed with a new name i.e. ‘TROPHY HUNTING’ to justify the unethical killing of these innocent creatures.
Trophy Hunting is the paid killing of wild animals, mostly mature males whose body parts (mostly horns, head etc) are displayed as accolades or trophies by the hunters. The money given by the hunters is stated to be then used for the conservation of the same species. This barbarous practice was introduced by British colonials in Africa and is still prevalent in many countries there.
Many conventional debates have sparked over this practice on various fronts.
The supporters of trophy hunting argue the following benefits of this practice-
ECONOMY AND CONSERVATION-
It is said that this practice brings millions of dollars to the economy as the cost of each hunt is really high which is a contributory factor for boosting the economy. The money collected is then used for conservation for the same species.
WILDLIFE POPULATION CONTROL-
Supporters argue that only those males who are on the post-breeding stage are used for this practice which in turn help in wildlife population control, the excess of which in turn will be harmful to the human race.
EDUCATION-
Some claim that this practice is also very useful on the educational front as it inculcates values of patience and courage.
However, in my opinion, the practice of trophy hunting is unethical as well as a heinous practice that cannot be deemed to be legal or significant in the name of economy or education. There are many ways to educate the principles to the future generation other than via the practice of trophy hunting.
Whereas there can be counterarguments for the same-
ECONOMY AND CONSERVATION-
There is no proof regarding the claims made. Due to widespread corruption, the money collected is kept with the concerned authorities and the money neither reaches the local communities nor goes for conservation practices. Hence the claim of economic and conservation goes in vain.
WILDLIFE POPULATION CONTROL-
Improper management of this practice would lead to a reduction in male population of the species which will ultimately lead to extinction because of lack of breeding and a great loss to the tourism industry on the economic front.
EDUCATION-
It is unethical to kill these innocent species just to satisfy the ego of some people. In my opinion, there is no particular value that could be taught with this practice only. There are many other ways to inculcate the value of courage and patience.
I would like to conclude by suggesting some of the ways to boost the tourism economy besides trophy hunting.
Some are listed below-
- Responsible ecotourism practices will provide a better and sustainable income generation model for conservation practices.
- Promoting wildlife photography as it is better to click alive and cheerful animals rather than clicking pictures with their dead bodies.
- Keeping in check the authorities concerned regarding funds generated for conservation activities.
So, it is upon us to think that; the continuation of this practice would save our economy or; will only satisfy some people who actually think of it as an achievement to click pictures with a dead animal.
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