Hunting and trade in both the pangolin species found in India is banned under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. (Schedule 1 )
International trade is prohibited under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora or CITES. (Appendix I)
The Indian Pangolin is found throughout the country south of the Himalayas, excluding the north-eastern region, while the Chinese Pangolin ranges through Assam and the eastern Himalayas.
A population decline of pangolins could lead to a serious ecological imbalance. Pangolins are considered farmers’ friends as they help to keep a check on populations of ants and termites, and help improve soil quality.