| Musth: It is a natural and periodic condition experienced by male elephants, characterized by heightened aggression and significant hormonal changes. It primarily affects adult male elephants and is marked by the secretion of fluid from the temporal glands located between the eyes and ears, which emits a strong odor. This phase can last for several months. |
- The World Association of Zoo and Aquarium (WAZA) suspended the Delhi National Zoological Park’s membership for six months due to concerns over the welfare of Shankar, an African elephant kept in chains.
- Shankar being chained due to aggressive behaviour during “musth” and the absence of a mate. Shankar, gifted by Zimbabwe in 1996, lost his companion, Bambai, in 2005.
- Delhi Zoo is negotiating with Botswana to bring a female elephant to accompany Shankar.
- WAZA’s suspension restricts the zoo from participating in global conferences or activities during this period.
- The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world.
- The membership consists of nearly 400 leading institutions and organisations around the world, and this number continues to grow.
| Central Zoo Authority (CZA) It was established in 1992 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Its primary objectives include promoting the conservation of India’s biodiversity, regulating zoos, setting standards for animal care, and managing conservation breeding programs. The CZA also provides financial and technical assistance to zoos and regulates animal exchanges between Indian and foreign zoos to ensure proper conservation and management. |
Dig Deeper: Read important provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the Animal Welfare Board of India.
