New Delhi: Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change and External Affairs, Kirt Vardhan Singh, conducted an inspection of the Delhi Zoological Park on Wednesday to review the health and maintenance arrangements of the African elephant Shankar. Singh also assessed the facilities available for both visitors and the park’s animals and birds.
During his visit, MoS Singh closely examined Shankar’s enclosure and engaged in discussions with the elephant’s mahouts (caretakers) and veterinary doctors. The Minister even fed Shankar fruits as part of the inspection. Joining the visit was Dr. Adrian, an elephant expert from Vantara, Jamnagar, Gujarat, alongside an elephant specialist from South Africa. Together, they deliberated on measures to enhance Shankar’s well-being, and an action plan was developed to improve the elephant’s health. Singh emphasized the need for expert training for the mahouts, a revised diet plan, and significant upgrades to Shankar’s enclosure to improve his living conditions.
Additionally, the Minister discussed the modernization of the Delhi Zoo to align with global standards. He highlighted the importance of India’s wildlife policies, which have fostered a deeper connection between people, nature, and wildlife. Singh also remarked that public awareness about wildlife conservation has been growing steadily, aided by the Wildlife Week activities.
Singh also informed zoo and forest officials about ongoing efforts to secure a companion for Shankar. Letters have been sent to South African nations including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, Namibia, Kenya, and Botswana. In a positive development, Botswana and Zimbabwe have pledged to donate an elephant, with formalities currently being finalized.
Present during the inspection were ADG Wildlife, Sushil Awasthi, and Delhi Zoological Park Director, Sanjeet Kumar, both of whom were part of the discussions on improving the zoo and enhancing Shankar’s care.