Punjab Makes License Mandatory for Keeping Parrots

The Punjab government has enforced new regulations requiring a license for keeping certain species of parrots, with the Wildlife Department authorized to take action against violators.

According to the Wildlife Department, the license fee for keeping a parrot as a hobby has been set at Rs 1,000. For commercial purposes, small breeders will be charged Rs 20,000 while large breeders must pay Rs 30,000.

Officials said licenses will be mandatory for Raw (Ring-necked), Alexandrine (Gani dar), Grey-headed, and Plum-headed parrots. Owners will also be required to submit an affidavit.

The department added that online licensing for indigenous parrot species has already begun, and strict legal action will be taken against anyone keeping parrots without a license.

Authorities stated that the measure aims to protect wildlife and curb illegal buying and selling of parrots.