Overview
The 46th meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) was held in Coimbatore and chaired by Union Bhupender Yadav. The gathering reviewed the performance of Indian zoos, discussed modernisation plans, and introduced a draft National Wildlife Health Policy. The minister also launched the CZA newsletter that records recent milestones in conservation breeding, wildlife health, scientific management and capacity building.
Key Developments
- Second cycle of Management Effectiveness Evaluation carried out by six expert teams.
- Concept note from CCMB‑LaCONES for a network of animal biobanks and reproductive technologies to support conservation breeding programmes.
- Discussion on modernising the National Zoological Park (NZP) to meet international standards.
- Drafting of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for zoo veterinarians and animal handlers across India.
- Presentation of a National Wildlife Health Policy concept paper to address emerging disease challenges.
- Report on the Committee’s recommendations for mobilising CSR funds for zoo development.
- Enforcement measures against unauthorised possession and display of non‑native species listed under CITES.
Important Facts
The meeting highlighted that Indian zoos are evolving from mere exhibition centres to hubs of conservation breeding, scientific research and public education. The biobank proposal aims to preserve genetic material of threatened species, enabling assisted reproduction when natural populations decline. The SOPs will standardise animal handling, r