Coimbatore: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav chaired the 46th Meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in Coimbatore on Friday, where members reviewed key achievements and strategic priorities for the financial year 2026–27. The meeting focused on strengthening zoo management, wildlife conservation, scientific planning, animal health and infrastructure development across India’s zoological parks.
During the meeting, the Minister also released the Central Zoo Authority’s newsletter, showcasing significant milestones in conservation breeding, wildlife health, scientific management and capacity building achieved by Indian zoos.
Focus on Modernising Indian Zoos
The governing body of the Central Zoo Authority reviewed several proposals aimed at modernising zoos across the country.
The discussions covered:
- Modernisation of existing zoos.
- Establishment of new zoological facilities.
- Improvement of visitor education programmes.
- Scientific planning and infrastructure development.
- Strengthening the role of zoos as centres for conservation, education and research.
The initiatives are aimed at ensuring that Indian zoos continue to contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation while enhancing visitor awareness and scientific management.
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Management Effectiveness Evaluation Reviewed
The Authority reviewed the second cycle of the Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of zoos, which was carried out by six expert evaluation teams.
The assessment examined the performance of zoos in areas such as animal care, habitat management, conservation programmes, visitor facilities and overall governance.
Animal Biobank Network Proposed
One of the important agenda items was a proposal submitted by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB)-Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES).
The proposal seeks to establish a network of animal biobanks using advanced reproductive technologies to strengthen conservation breeding programmes in Indian zoos.
The initiative aims to preserve valuable genetic material of endangered wildlife species and support long-term conservation efforts.
National Zoological Park Modernisation
The meeting also reviewed issues related to the modernisation of the National Zoological Park, with discussions focusing on infrastructure upgrades, improved animal management and visitor facilities.
Standard Operating Procedures for Zoo Staff
The governing body deliberated on the formulation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for:
- Zoo veterinarians.
- Animal handlers working in Indian zoos.
The SOPs are expected to improve animal welfare standards, veterinary care and operational efficiency across zoological institutions.
National Wildlife Health Policy Discussed
A Concept Paper on the National Wildlife Health Policy was also presented during the meeting.
The proposed policy aims to address emerging challenges in wildlife disease surveillance, veterinary care, biosecurity and wildlife health management across protected areas and zoological institutions.
CSR Funding and Resource Mobilisation
Members also examined the report of the committee constituted to explore:
- Utilisation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for zoos.
- Resource mobilisation strategies to support zoo infrastructure, conservation projects and public education programmes.
Action Against Illegal Possession of Non-Native Wildlife
The meeting discussed issues concerning the unauthorised possession and display of non-native wild animal species listed under the appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
The Authority deliberated on strengthening the enforcement of legal provisions to curb illegal possession and exhibition of exotic wildlife.
CZA Newsletter Released
During the meeting, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav released the latest edition of the Central Zoo Authority’s newsletter, highlighting the Authority’s achievements in:
- Conservation breeding.
- Wildlife health.
- Scientific zoo management.
- Capacity building.
- Best practices adopted by Indian zoos.
The newsletter showcases the progress made by zoos across the country in promoting scientific conservation and animal welfare.
The 46th meeting reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s zoo network through scientific management, modern infrastructure, improved wildlife healthcare and conservation-focused initiatives.
