Union Environment Minister Chairs Meeting of Central Zoo Authority;

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav on Tuesday chaired the 43rd meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) at the National Zoological Park, New Delhi. In a post on the social media platform ‘X’, the Minister informed that issues related to ex-situ conservation and the management of zoos across the country were deliberated in detail during the meeting. He said that directions were also issued to complete the second round of Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of zoos across the country.

Significant decisions taken at the meeting included the constitution of a sub-committee to examine and report on the potential of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions for zoos and an enhanced frequency of CZA meetings henceforth, in line with the meetings of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife.

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

During the Inaugural Session of the event, Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change 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, animal care and to evolve 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.

Director General of Forests and Special Secretary Sushil Kumar Awasthi said that CZA’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 CZA has contributed significantly to transforming Indian zoos from traditional animal display facilities into professionally managed conservation institutions.(UPDATED ON 3RD FEB 2026)