National Zoological Park (NZP), New Delhi
Why in News?
The National Zoological Park, New Delhi, celebrated its 67th Foundation Day on 1 November 2026. Around 1,500 visitors participated in or appreciated a wildlife-themed doodle activity. The park also organised the 19th edition of its Sunday Bird Walk.
Key Facts
- Established: 1959.
- Location: New Delhi, near the Old Fort (Purana Qila).
- Administrative ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
- Popularly known as: Delhi Zoo.
- Objective: Wildlife conservation, captive breeding, research, education and public awareness.
- 67th Foundation Day: 1 November 2026.
- The 19th edition was organised on 1 November 2026.
- Conducted between 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM.
- Led by ornithologist Dr. Paritosh Ahmed.
- Promotes citizen participation in biodiversity monitoring and species documentation.
- Encourages citizen science, where members of the public contribute to scientific observation and data collection.
- Modern Zoo: An institution focused not merely on displaying animals but also on conservation, education, research and animal welfare.
- Ex-situ Conservation: Conservation of species outside their natural habitats, such as in zoos and botanical gardens.
- Captive Breeding: Breeding endangered species under controlled conditions to support conservation.
- Citizen Science: Public participation in scientific research and biodiversity documentation.
- Zoos support conservation of threatened species through captive breeding and scientific management.
- Bird walks help document urban biodiversity and promote ecological awareness.
- Modernisation of zoos must balance visitor facilities with animal welfare, habitat enrichment and conservation objectives.
- The National Zoological Park's activities contribute to environmental education and public participation in conservation.
