Zoos are Space for Research and Learning Says Kirti Vardhan Singh

India’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mr Bhupender Yadav, on Tuesday, chaired the 43rd meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) at the National Zoological Park, New Delhi.

Significant decisions taken at the meeting included establishing a subcommittee to examine and report on the potential of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions for zoos and increasing the frequency of CZA meetings, in line with the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife.

Mr Yadav also highlighted in the meeting that the Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of zoos is an evidence-based, comprehensive, holistic, and independent exercise that encourages the maintenance of the highest standards across the country.

It was noted that one of the objectives of the National Policy on Zoos is to inspire empathy for wild animals among zoo visitors and to promote understanding and awareness of the need to conserve natural resources and maintain ecological balance.

To achieve this, it was emphasised that outreach activities of zoos should be enhanced through the preparation of an annual calendar and action plan for the observance of important days, along with species-wise assignment of roles to zoos in this regard.

The Central Zoo Authority, a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, also celebrated its 34th Foundation Day.

The event coincided with the Chief Wildlife Warden and Zoo Directors’ Conference, providing a common platform for discussions related to zoo management and wildlife conservation. The day-long Conference brought together perspectives from policy, practice, science and administration.

The day sessions focused on contemporary issues and opportunities, including modern zoo management, conservation breeding, veterinary care, animal nutrition, sustainability, and the One Health approach.

The deliberations highlighted the interconnected well-being of animals, ecosystems, and human communities, underscoring the importance of coordinated, informed action in wildlife conservation.

During the event’s inaugural session, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mr Kirti Vardhan Singh, said that a zoo is not just a display centre where people come to see animals.

It is also a major opportunity for researchers and scientists to learn more about animal behaviour and care and to develop better medical care methods. “We are taking care of poor, defenceless animals here, and we really need to be very sensitive to what all can be done,” he said.

Addressing officials at the Chief Wildlife Warden and Zoo Directors’ Conference, the Minister asked them to reflect on whether they are taking into account the world’s best practices and learning from other zoos.

The Minister noted that the younger generation is increasingly focused on virtual reality through mobile phones and is losing sensitivity towards the natural wonders around them.

In this context, he said Indian zoos play a critical role in raising awareness among the younger generation, especially urban dwellers, about the natural world.

In the context of rapid technological advancement, Mr Singh called for discussions on how technology can be used to improve zoo management, enhance animal care, and enhance the visitor experience.

He further stressed the need for greater collaboration with state governments, research institutions, stakeholders, and NGOs to gather valuable input to improve zoos from the viewer’s perspective.

Director General of Forests and Special Secretary, Sushil Kumar Awasthi, said that the Central Zoo Authority’s Foundation Day marks a milestone in India’s journey towards strengthening ethical and conservation-oriented zoo management.

Additional Director General of Forests (MoEFCC), Ramesh Kumar Pandey, said India holds a special position in zoo management, noting that out of more than 150 zoos in the country, most are run by the forest departments.

Member Secretary, CZA, V. Clement Ben, said that the Central Zoo Authority has contributed significantly to transforming Indian zoos from traditional animal display facilities into professionally managed conservation institutions.