13 October 2021.

Introduction:

Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change released the “Vision Plan: 2021-2031” for Indian zoos. This plan was released during a two-day National Conference for zoo directors & veterinarians in Gujarat.

Highlights

• The two-day conference was organized by Central Zoo Authority and was hosted by Sardar Patel Zoological Park, Kevadia in Gujarat.
• This Vision Plan was launched with the aim of upgrading Indian zoos to global standards.
• It also focuses on conserving local birds and animals.
• On the occasion, a coffee table book compiling 75 species from 75 zoos was also launched as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Mitra awards

At the conference, Mitra awards were also presented under four categories. These four categories are- veterinarian, animal keeper or zoo frontline, outstanding contributions by zoo director or curator and biologist or educationists.

Vision Plan (2021-2031)

• Vision plan is a strategy to transform Indian zoos.
• The 10-year vision plan was released after extensive data mining & consultation with the stakeholders.
• The plan was adopted with the aim of giving a direction towards ex-situ conservation approaches across India.
• It also mentions 10 pillars of change for Central Zoo Authority (CZA) & Indian zoos.
•  It sets some specific targets and timelines for achieving the ‘Call to Action’ that will be realized in 10 years.
• These pillars comprise of strengthening ex situ conservation of endangered native species, management of rescued animals and optimizing animal welfare.

Biodiversity in India

• Biodiversity in India must be conserved for the sustainable development. India comprises of only 2.4% of the land area of the world.
• But accounts for 7-8% of all recorded species.
•  It includes more than 45,000 species of plants and 91000 species of animals.