Delhi's National Zoological Park to Undergo ₹400-Crore Redevelopment
National Zoological Park in Delhi to be redeveloped with ₹400 crore investment, starting April next year.
Photo by mathew Wilson
Quick Revision
National Zoological Park to be redeveloped
Redevelopment cost: ₹400 crore
Work to begin by April next year
Animal enclosures to increase from 94 to over 200
Key Dates
Key Numbers
Visual Insights
Location of National Zoological Park, Delhi
Shows the location of the National Zoological Park in Delhi, where the ₹400-crore redevelopment project is planned.
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Exam Angles
GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology, Conservation efforts
Link to biodiversity conservation and wildlife protection
Potential for questions on the role of zoos in conservation
View Detailed Summary
Summary
Background
The concept of zoos dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of animal collections kept by rulers and wealthy individuals for display and prestige. Modern zoos, however, emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries, driven by scientific curiosity and a desire to educate the public about the natural world. The Zoological Society of London, founded in 1826, established the London Zoo, which became a model for zoos worldwide.
These early zoos often focused on showcasing exotic animals, but over time, their mission evolved to include conservation, research, and animal welfare. The establishment of the Central Zoo Authority in India reflects this global shift towards responsible zoo management and conservation efforts.
Latest Developments
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on improving animal welfare in zoos globally. This includes providing larger and more naturalistic enclosures, enriching the animals' environment to stimulate their natural behaviors, and focusing on conservation breeding programs to help endangered species. Technology is also playing an increasing role, with zoos using virtual reality and interactive exhibits to enhance visitor engagement and educate them about conservation issues.
Furthermore, there's a trend towards zoos becoming more actively involved in field conservation projects, supporting efforts to protect animals in their natural habitats. The Delhi zoo's redevelopment plan aligns with these global trends, aiming to create a more modern and sustainable institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the key facts about the Delhi zoo redevelopment project that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?
The key facts for Prelims include the ₹400 crore redevelopment cost, the plan to begin work by April next year, and the increase in animal enclosures from 94 to over 200. Remember these figures and the timeline as they are frequently tested in objective-type questions.
Exam Tip
Focus on remembering the numerical data (₹400 crore, 94, 200+) and the timeline (April next year) for quick recall in the exam.
2. Why is the National Zoological Park redevelopment in Delhi in the news recently?
The National Zoological Park redevelopment is in the news because the investment board has approved a ₹400-crore redevelopment plan. Work is expected to begin by April next year, pending final approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
3. What is the historical background of zoos, and how does the Delhi zoo redevelopment align with current global trends in zoo management?
Zoos have evolved from mere animal collections for display to centers for conservation and education. The Delhi zoo redevelopment, with its focus on enhancing animal enclosures and increasing their number, aligns with the global trend of improving animal welfare and promoting conservation.
4. What are the planned enhancements for the animal enclosures in the Delhi zoo redevelopment project?
The redevelopment plan includes enhancing animal enclosures and increasing their number from 94 to over 200. Glass viewing panels and new barriers will be added to improve the visitor experience. The project will also re-evaluate pending projects like a butterfly park and reptile houses.
- •Enhancing animal enclosures
- •Increasing the number of enclosures from 94 to over 200
- •Adding glass viewing panels and new barriers
- •Re-evaluating pending projects like a butterfly park and reptile houses
5. In your opinion, what are the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a large-scale redevelopment project for the National Zoological Park?
The potential benefits include improved animal welfare, increased visitor engagement, and enhanced conservation efforts. Drawbacks could include the high cost (₹400 crore), potential disruptions during the four-year construction period, and the risk of project delays or mismanagement. Balancing these factors is crucial for the project's success.
6. What are the recent developments related to the National Zoological Park redevelopment, as per the provided information?
Recent developments include the investment board's approval of the ₹400-crore redevelopment plan. The project is awaiting final approval from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, with work expected to begin by April next year.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Central Zoo Authority (CZA): 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 India. 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
Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) is indeed a statutory body established under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The CZA plays a crucial role in evaluating and approving the master plans for zoos in India, ensuring they adhere to prescribed standards. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: While the CZA provides technical and other assistance, it does not directly provide financial assistance to all recognized zoos. Funding is typically sourced from other government schemes and private donors.
2. Which of the following is NOT a primary objective of modern zoos?
- A.Conservation of endangered species
- B.Providing entertainment to visitors
- C.Conducting scientific research
- D.Educating the public about wildlife
Show Answer
Answer: B
While providing entertainment to visitors is a function of zoos, it is not considered a primary objective. Modern zoos prioritize conservation, research, and education. Entertainment is a secondary benefit that supports these primary goals.
3. In the context of wildlife conservation, consider the following pairs: List I (Organizations) List II (Functions) 1. CZA a. Regulates zoos in India 2. IUCN b. Publishes the Red List 3. WWF c. Manages tiger reserves Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Pair 1 is CORRECT: The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) is responsible for regulating zoos in India. Pair 2 is CORRECT: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) publishes the Red List of Threatened Species. Pair 3 is INCORRECT: WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) works on a wide range of conservation issues, including tiger conservation, but it does not directly manage tiger reserves. Tiger reserves are managed by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.