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14 Jan 2026·Source: The Indian Express
3 min
Environment & EcologyNEWS

Delhi Zoo faces probe after jackal allegedly burnt alive

Union alleges jackal was unlawfully killed at Delhi zoo; probe ordered.

Delhi Zoo faces probe after jackal allegedly burnt alive

Photo by Andreas Rasmussen

The Union Environment Ministry has ordered a probe into allegations by the National Zoo Workers Union that a jackal was unlawfully killed at the National Zoological Park in Delhi in December. The Union claims the jackal, which had escaped its enclosure in November, was burned alive inside a bear's burrow after chili powder was poured in and ignited. The species is protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022. Zoo officials deny the incident, stating the number of jackals matches inventory records. The Joint Director has been asked to enquire into the allegation.

Key Facts

1.

Incident: Alleged unlawful killing of jackal at Delhi Zoo

2.

Protection: Jackal protected under Wildlife Act Schedule 1

3.

Complaint filed: By National Zoo Workers Union

4.

Probe ordered: By Union Environment Ministry

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology, Conservation

2.

Link to Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and its amendments

3.

Ethical considerations in wildlife management

Visual Insights

Location of National Zoological Park, Delhi

Shows the location of the National Zoological Park in Delhi, where the alleged incident occurred. This highlights the geographical context of the news.

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📍Delhi
More Information

Background

The history of zoos and wildlife conservation in India dates back to the colonial era. Early zoos were primarily recreational, showcasing exotic animals. However, post-independence, the focus shifted towards conservation and scientific study.

The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 marked a significant turning point, providing a legal framework for protecting endangered species and regulating zoos. The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) was established in 1992 to oversee the management and development of zoos across the country, ensuring adherence to conservation standards and animal welfare. The evolution of zoos reflects a broader change in societal attitudes towards wildlife, from mere entertainment to active conservation efforts.

Latest Developments

Recent trends in zoo management emphasize ex-situ conservation, focusing on breeding programs for endangered species and research on animal behavior and health. There's a growing emphasis on making zoos more educational and engaging for visitors, promoting awareness about wildlife conservation. The Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022, strengthens penalties for wildlife crimes and introduces new provisions for managing protected areas.

Furthermore, there is increasing scrutiny of animal welfare standards in zoos, with animal rights organizations advocating for improved living conditions and ethical treatment. Future trends are likely to involve greater use of technology, such as AI for animal monitoring and virtual reality for visitor experiences, to enhance conservation efforts and public engagement.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022: 1. It increases the penalties for offences related to species listed in Schedule I. 2. It empowers the Central Government to designate a Management Authority to regulate trade in specified wild animals, plants and their parts. 3. It mandates the establishment of a Standing Committee of State Wildlife Boards. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022, does increase penalties for Schedule I offences and empowers the Central Government to designate a Management Authority. Statement 3 is incorrect as it pertains to the establishment of a Governing Board, not a Standing Committee of State Wildlife Boards.

2. With reference to the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), consider the following statements: 1. It is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. 2. It evaluates and approves the master plan for zoos in the country. 3. It provides financial assistance to all recognized zoos in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The CZA is a statutory body under the MoEFCC and approves zoo master plans. Statement 3 is incorrect because while CZA oversees zoos, direct financial assistance isn't provided to all recognized zoos.

3. Which of the following factors are considered while categorizing a species under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972? 1. Population size and distribution 2. Threat of extinction 3. Ecological role and importance 4. Economic value of the species Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1, 2 and 3 only
  • B.2 and 4 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2, 3 and 4
Show Answer

Answer: A

Factors considered for Schedule I listing include population size, extinction threat, and ecological role. Economic value is generally not a primary consideration for Schedule I listing, which focuses on conservation needs.

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