(i) Differentiate between wild and domestic animals. (ii) Give an overview of how animals are exploited in medical research.

Habitat and Human Interaction

Wild animals live and reproduce naturally, maintaining ecosystems, while domestic animals depend on humans for food and breeding, as shown by the Livestock Census1 and Integrated Sample Survey data. Domestic animals are adapted to human-controlled environments and bred for specific purposes like food, labor, or companionship.

Legal and Economic Roles

Wild animals receive protection under wildlife laws and programs like Project Elephant2, which safeguards elephant populations and corridors, whereas domestic animals support agriculture and nutrition, with India producing 239.30 million tonnes of milk in 2023-24. Domestic animals contribute significantly to rural livelihoods and the national economy.

Ethical and Regulatory Frameworks

Animal testing is vital for drug safety, governed by CPCSEA guidelines to minimize pain, with anesthesia and humane endpoints used; however, enforcement challenges persist, especially in rural areas. The Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA) ensures standards but faces resource and awareness limitations.

Balancing Conservation and Livelihoods

Andhra Pradesh’s aquaculture and livestock sectors face conflicts between economic needs and wildlife habitat protection, including elephant corridors. Expansion of domestic animal farming risks habitat encroachment and human-wildlife conflicts.