Environment Minister Chairs 46th Central Zoo Authority Meeting in Coimbatore

COIMBATORE, 09 JULY 2026: Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav on Thursday chaired the 46th Governing Body Meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in Coimbatore, where senior officials reviewed the future roadmap for strengthening zoo management, wildlife conservation and scientific research across the country.

The meeting assessed the Central Zoo Authority’s progress and priorities for the 2026-27 financial year, with discussions centred on improving the quality of Indian zoos through better infrastructure, conservation programmes and visitor engagement. Officials emphasised that modern zoos should function not only as recreational spaces but also as centres for biodiversity conservation, education, research and wildlife rehabilitation.

Among the key issues discussed was the second phase of the Management Effectiveness Evaluation, under which expert teams assessed the functioning and performance of zoos across India. The review aims to promote higher standards in animal welfare, habitat management and overall operational efficiency.

The governing body also examined a proposal from the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB)-LaCONES to establish a nationwide network of animal biobanks. The initiative seeks to preserve valuable genetic material using advanced reproductive technologies, supporting long-term conservation breeding programmes for endangered species housed in Indian zoos.

Modernisation of the National Zoological Park in New Delhi also featured prominently during the discussions. Members explored measures to enhance infrastructure, improve visitor facilities and adopt international best practices in zoo management while ensuring higher standards of animal care.

To strengthen professional standards, the meeting reviewed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for zoo veterinarians and animal handlers. These guidelines are expected to improve veterinary care, animal management and emergency response systems in zoological institutions across the country.

The governing body further deliberated on a proposed National Wildlife Health Policy, aimed at creating a coordinated framework to address emerging diseases, improve wildlife healthcare systems and strengthen surveillance mechanisms for captive and free-ranging animals.

Members also discussed strategies to mobilise additional financial resources, including greater utilisation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding to support zoo development and conservation initiatives. Another important agenda item focused on enforcing legal provisions against the illegal possession and exhibition of exotic wildlife species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

During the event, Bhupender Yadav released the latest edition of the Central Zoo Authority newsletter, showcasing recent achievements in conservation breeding, wildlife healthcare, scientific management, capacity building and sustainable zoo development.

The meeting reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to transforming Indian zoos into globally benchmarked institutions that contribute meaningfully to wildlife conservation, scientific research and public awareness.