New Delhi: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mr. Bhupender Yadav, chaired the 43rd meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) on Tuesday at the National Zoological Park, New Delhi. The meeting deliberated on crucial issues related to ex-situ conservation, zoo management, and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of zoos across India.
The Minister highlighted the need to complete the second round of Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) for all zoos in the country. This evidence-based, independent evaluation ensures that zoos maintain the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and public education.
Decisions and Strategic Directions
Among the key decisions taken:
- Formation of a sub-committee to explore CSR contributions for supporting zoos.
- Enhanced frequency of CZA meetings to align with the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife.
- Emphasis on creating an annual action plan and calendar for outreach activities, including species-wise assignments and observance of important conservation days.
Mr. Yadav stressed that zoos are more than display centers; they are spaces for research, learning, and promoting public awareness about ecological balance and conservation of natural resources.
34th Foundation Day of CZA and Conference on Zoo Management
The CZA also celebrated its 34th Foundation Day, coinciding with the Chief Wildlife Warden and Zoo Directors’ Conference, providing a platform for discussing wildlife conservation and zoo management practices.
Union Minister of State, Mr. Kirti Vardhan Singh, emphasized that zoos are learning and research hubs where animal behavior, care practices, and veterinary methods can be studied and improved. He urged officials to adopt world’s best practices and leverage technology to enhance animal care, visitor experience, and zoo management.
Mr. Singh highlighted the role of zoos in reconnecting the younger generation with nature, especially as digital engagement through mobile phones reduces direct interaction with natural ecosystems. He called for stronger collaboration with state governments, research institutions, NGOs, and stakeholders to improve zoo management and conservation outcomes.
Contributions of CZA to Indian Zoos
Mr Sushil Kumar Awasthi, Director General of Forests, described the CZA Foundation Day as a milestone in ethical and conservation-oriented zoo management in India. Mr. Ramesh Kumar Pandey, Additional Director General of Forests, noted that India’s 150+ zoos, largely run by state forest departments, are evolving into professional conservation institutions.
Mr V. Clement Ben, Member Secretary of CZA, highlighted the transformation of Indian zoos from traditional animal display facilities into modern, professionally managed conservation centers.
Conference Deliberations and Key Themes
The conference sessions focused on:
- Modern zoo management practices
- Conservation breeding programs
- Veterinary care and animal nutrition
Sustainability and the One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnected well-being of animals, ecosystems, and human communities
The discussions underscored the importance of coordinated, science-based action to enhance both conservation and public education through zoos.
