The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is crafting a new policy aimed at upgrading and developing zoos across India within a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework. The intent of this new policy is to foster a greater connection between wildlife and humans. A better understanding and closer observation of wildlife behaviour is expected as an outcome. In a simultaneous event, Wildlife Week, commemorated annually from October 2nd to 8th since 1952, was celebrated with renewed commitment towards preserving India’s fauna.
Notable Developments: CZA-TERI Report on Economic Valuation of Ecosystem
A groundbreaking study titled “Economic valuation of ecosystem services, National Zoological Park, New Delhi” was published by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). This first-of-its-kind research quantifies the entire annual economic value of the ecosystem services offered by the zoo, including biodiversity conservation, employment generation, carbon sequestration, education, research, recreation and cultural preservation.
In addition to the report publication, the Minister also presented the CZA-Prani Mitra awards to motivate zoo officers and staff working diligently for captive animal management and welfare.
Understanding Zoological Parks
Zoological parks, or zoos, serve the function of ex situ conservation of animals; they offer a refuge for organisms outside their natural habitats using a variety of techniques such as captive breeding, aquariums, botanical gardens, and gene banks.
Contrastingly, in-situ conservation refers to protection endeavours implemented in the natural habitat of endangered plant or animal species. This includes National Parks, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries, community reserves and sacred groves.
The running of zoos in India is currently governed by the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, under the guidance of the National Zoo Policy, 1998.
The Role Of The Central Zoo Authority (CZA)
Established in 1992 by the Government of India, the CZA serves to supervise the operation of zoos across the country and prevent the uncontrolled creation of poorly-planned zoos. As a statutory body falling under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the CZA is responsible for giving recognition to zoos, regulating their operation, setting guidelines, as well as initiating rules related to inter-zoo animal transfers.
The CZA also undertakes coordination and implementation of capacity building programmes for zoo personnel, planned breeding initiatives, and ex situ research.
About The Energy And Resources Institute (TERI)
TERI, established in 1974, is a non-governmental research institute based in New Delhi. Originally known as the Tata Energy Research Institute, it focuses on areas of energy, environment, and sustainable development.
Last Modified: February 9, 2024