Date:04/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/07/04/stories/2009070451080200.htm

Other States - Orissa

Nandankanan enters the big league

Staff Reporter

It will pave way for best practices

BHUBANESWAR: Nandankanan Zoological Park (NBP) has become the first Indian zoo to become member of World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

The recognition would pave the way for exchanging of best practices in zoo keeping and assistance of international zoo experts could be availed in the emergency situation.

Moreover, NZP would have the opportunity of taking part in the development of new strategies and policies, which would have an impact on the future development of zoos and aquariums worldwide.

“More than 240 zoos and aquaria are institutional members of WAZA. WAZA supports the World Zoo and Aquarium Conservation Strategy and known for support global conservation initiatives.

It also supports zoos and aquariums with a global marketing strategy,” said NZP director Ajit Pattnaik here on Friday.

Mr. Pattnaik said associations of zoo veterinarians or zoo educators from all over the world were member of WAZA. In a communication WAZA secretariat said that its current members did not object to membership application submitted by NZP.

“You are part of a highly reputed association unifying the leading zoos and aquariums and the most influential regional zoo associations of the world. The association will link you to the IUCN Network and will lobby on your behalf at international forums, such as CITES, CBD, CMS, RAMSAR and OIE,” the association communicated to NZP. NZP boasts of housing 1,416 animals and birds of more than 121 species in the zoo.

After WAZA membership, NZP authorities could participate in the annual conferences where they could meet renowned experts in various fields.