Wildlife Panel OKs 58 Eco-Sensitive Projects

The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife convened to assess 58 proposals for development projects situated near protected wildlife areas. These projects span sectors including communication infrastructure, optical fiber cables, power lines, roads, and irrigation, with a focus on ecological sensitivity and statutory compliance.

Policy discussions addressed critical conservation matters. These included ensuring environmental flows in the Chambal River for aquatic species like dolphins and gharials, examining the status of villages within Tiger Reserves, and understanding the significance of grasslands for wildlife management. The committee also focused on challenges presented by the human-leopard interface.

In a related meeting, the Central Zoo Authority reviewed achievements from 2025-26 and outlined priorities for 2026-27. Key decisions included a target to complete the second cycle of Management Effectiveness Evaluation for large and medium zoos by May 2026. The scope of a committee on corporate social responsibility contributions for zoos was broadened to identify prominent individuals for promoting zoos and conservation education.

Further initiatives involve exploring collaborations with the Zoological Survey of India and other institutions to enhance zoo promotion and conservation education. The authority will also seek input from Members of Parliament in constituencies with recognized zoos to strengthen them under the National Zoo Policy and will identify schools that have organized zoo visits to gather suggestions for zoo improvement.