Master Planning of Zoos - Central Zoo Authority

Technical Session V
Initiatives taken by CZA
§ A group of specialists were nominated by the Authority just after its creation in
1992 with a mandate to prepare a strategy for conservation breeding of
endangered species in Indian Zoos.
§ The group identified about 35 mammals, birds and reptiles for their probable
captive breeding in identified Zoos. The Chief Wildlife Warden’s of the States,
which had the natural distribution of the species, were selected as coordinators
for the programme
§ Because of varied ownership patterns of the Zoos and divergent nature of animal
collections, not much was achieved.
A Sub-Committee of experts with Mr. M. Kamal Naidu, Ex-Director, National
Zoological Park, New Delhi and Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad, Dr. J.H. Desai,
ex-Director, National Zoological Park, New Delhi, Dr. L.N. Acharjyo,
Ex-Veterinary Officer, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Bhubaneswar, Dr. Gautam
Narain, Project Officer, Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme and Dr. B.R. Sharma,
Member Secretary, Central Zoo Authority as its Members was constituted with
the approval of the Minister, Environment & Forests, Government of India and
Chairman, Central Zoo Authority.
Decisions taken by the CZA
§ It has been decided that the on-going Planned Conservation Breeding
Programmes for Snow leopards, Red panda, Pygmy hog and Asiatic lion should
continue as per the existing set up.
§ The Planned Conservation Breeding Programme for other species in need
should be taken up in consultation with the State Governments and as per the
availability of founder population and proper ex-situ facilities as recommended
by the Sub-Committee on Conservation Breeding.
§ For maintenance of studbooks for the programme, the Wildlife Institute of
India has agreed upon for maintenance of studbooks.
§ In order to make the Conservation Breeding Programme a success, Central
Zoo Authority will provide financial assistance on 100% basis for creation of
appropriate infrastructure for the identified species of wild animals either in
the off-site facility in Zoos or as a satellite facility.
§ The maintenance cost of endangered species selected for conservation breeding
should not be borne by the Central Zoo Authority.
§ Take help from national, international associations/ individuals and experts
who have the expertise in ex-situ breeding of wild animals and would like to
collaborate with the Conservation Breeding Programme.
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