Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, chaired the 46th Meeting of the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), today in Coimbatore. Key achievements and strategic priorities of the CZA during the financial year 2026-27 were presented before the governing body of Central Zoo Authority.

The Meeting reviewed proposals for modernization of zoos, establishment of new zoological facilities, improved visitor education, scientific planning and infrastructure development to ensure that Indian zoos continue to serve as centres of conservation, education and research

The following are the prominent deliberations that took place in the meeting:

• Second cycle of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of zoos conducted by six evaluation teams.
• Concept note regarding the proposal from the CCMB-LaCONES for development of a network of animal biobanks with reproductive technologies to serve conservation breeding programmes in Indian zoos.
• Issues related to National Zoological Park modernization.

• Standard Operating Procedures for Zoo Veterinarians and Animal Handlers in Indian zoos.
• National Wildlife Health Policy Concept Paper proposed in an endeavour to address the emerging challenges in wildlife health management.
• Report of the Committee on use of CSR funds and resources mobilisation for zoos.
• Unauthorised possession and display of non-native species of wild animals listed in appendices of CITES - enforcement of legal provisions.

At the Meeting, the Minister also released the Central Zoo Authority's newsletter highlighting milestones in conservation breeding, wildlife health, scientific management and capacity building across Indian zoos.