Delhi Zoo mulls one-day animal adoption scheme to expand outreach
The National Zoological Park in Delhi has proposed a new adoption scheme that would allow visitors to adopt animals for as short as a single day. The plan, currently awaiting approval, aims to replace the zoo's existing year-long adoption model with more flexible options, including monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, and daily terms, as per the zoo officials.
'At present, the adoption is only available for a one-year term and involves a formal stamp paper agreement. We are proposing changes that would allow people to adopt animals for a shorter duration, from a single day to a few months…on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly and yearly basis,' said Dr Sanjeet Kumar, Delhi Zoo Director.
He added, 'The aim is to simplify the procedure…reduce the entry barrier and broaden the scope of participation for adoption benefits.'
In Indian zoos, 'adoption' is not a transfer of custody or ownership. The animal is not taken home or taken into legal possession. Instead, the adopter contributes money towards the care of the zoo animal— similar to a voluntary sponsorship or donation.
The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) doesn't explicitly mention 'adoption' in the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009 and the CZA's Guidelines for Scientific Management of Zoos. However, it is encouraged for public engagement. As per an official CZA document, 'In addition to educational programmes, zoos need support for upkeep of animals and enclosures, conservation efforts, science and recreation missions.'
It added, 'Corporate sponsorship and support are important in these areas. Corporates are offered a range of activities and programmes which they can choose to support. These may range from a specific animal or exhibit to funding research or conservation projects.'
At present, the Delhi Zoo's adoption programme requires a minimum commitment of one year, formalised after entering into an agreement with the zoo management.
The scheme, launched in the pandemic year 2022, allows the public, animal lovers, corporates, celebrities and educational institutions to adopt animals by contributing to their food, medical care, and upkeep. 'Through this scheme, the zoos shall be in more direct public contact with enhanced accountability.'
Annual fees vary depending on the species — from Rs 700 for birds to Rs 6 lakh for elephants.
In return, adopters receive benefits such as an adoption membership card, certificate, visit permit, and name featured in signage in front of the animal's enclosure.
The current scheme, while open to individuals, has so far seen greater uptake from corporate donors, as per zoo officials. However, the scheme calls for adopters to use it as 'a great gift of adopted animals for birthdays or anniversaries to family members of friends, children or relatives.'
Meanwhile, the revised plan envisions significantly lower adoption fees for short durations, starting at Rs 100 to around Rs 500 for a one-day adoption of smaller animals, said zoo officials. By introducing short-term and lower-cost options, the zoo hopes to draw in more citizens, added Dr Kumar. 'The plan is still at the proposal stage…Complete details of the adoption scheme can be clarified only after the necessary approvals,' he said.
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