Central Zoo Authority
About
- The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) was established as a statutory body under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in 1992.
- The main objective of this Authority is to complement and strengthen the national effort in conservation of rich biodiversity of the country, particularly the fauna.
- Other objectives of this Authority include enforcing minimum standards and norms for upkeep and healthcare of animals in Indian zoos and to control mushrooming of unplanned and ill-conceived zoos.
- The Authority functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and consists of a Chairman (Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change), ten members and a Member Secretary.
Functions of CZA
- Every zoo in the country is required to obtain recognition from the Authority for its operation.
- The Authority’s role is more of a facilitator than a regulator. It therefore provides technical and financial assistance to such zoos which have the potential to attain the desired standard in animal management.
- Apart from the primary function of grant of recognition, the Central Zoo Authority also regulates the exchange of animals of endangered category listed under Schedule- I and II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 among zoos.
- Exchange of animals between Indian and foreign zoos is also approved by the Authority.
Why in News?
- Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav chaired the 46th meeting of the Central Zoo Authority.