Environment Minister Chairs 46th Meeting of Central Zoo Authority at Coimbatore

India’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mr Bhupender Yadav, chaired the 46th Meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) today in Coimbatore.

Key achievements and strategic priorities of the Central Zoo Authority during the financial year 2026-27 were presented before the governing body of the CZA.

The Meeting reviewed proposals for the modernisation of zoos, the establishment of new zoological facilities, improved visitor education, scientific planning, and infrastructure development to ensure that Indian zoos continue to serve as centres of conservation, education, and research.

The following are the prominent deliberations that took place in the meeting:

• The second cycle of the Management Effectiveness Evaluation of zoos was conducted by six evaluation teams.
• Concept note on the proposal from CCMB-LaCONES to develop a network of animal biobanks with reproductive technologies to support conservation breeding programmes in Indian zoos.
• Issues related to the National Zoological Park modernisation.
• Standard Operating Procedures for Zoo Veterinarians and Animal Handlers in Indian Zoos.
• The National Wildlife Health Policy Concept Paper was proposed to address emerging challenges in wildlife health management.
• Report of the Committee on the use of CSR funds and resources mobilisation for zoos.
• Unauthorised possession and display of non-native wild animal species listed in CITES appendices – enforcement of legal provisions.

At the Meeting, the Minister also released the Central Zoo Authority’s newsletter highlighting milestones in conservation breeding, wildlife health, scientific management and capacity building across Indian zoos.