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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.