WAZA Suspends Delhi Zoo Over Elephant Welfare Concerns

Why in the news?

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums suspended Delhi Zoo’s membership due to concerns about the care of its lone African elephant, Shankar, raising global animal welfare issues.

WAZA Suspends Delhi Zoo Over Elephant Welfare Concerns

About the news:

  • The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) suspended the Delhi Zoo’s membership due to concerns over the treatment of Shankar, an African elephant.
  • WAZA, established in 1935, is the leading global organisation representing zoos and aquariums worldwide.
  • Its mission focuses on animal welfare, conservation, and environmental education.

Key Activities:

  • WAZA promotes cooperation between zoos and aquariums for the conservation, management, and breeding of animals in captivity.
  • It encourages high standards in animal welfare, husbandry, and coordinates collaborations among regional and national associations.
  • WAZA represents zoos and aquariums in international forums and advocates for wildlife conservation, environmental research, and education.

Global Partnerships:

  • WAZA has partnerships with international conservation organisations to address pressing global issues.
  • Together, they tackle challenges like the illegal wildlife trade, coral reef restoration, marine litter, sustainable palm oil production, and climate change.

About World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA):

  • Established in 1935, WAZA is the global umbrella organisation for zoos and aquariums.
  • Its mission is to support animal care, welfare, environmental education, and global conservation.
  • Members include leading zoos, aquariums, regional/national associations, and affiliate organisations like zoo veterinarians and educators.

Central Zoo Authority (CZA):

  • Established in 1992 under the Ministry of Environment & Forests.
  • Aims: to support India’s biodiversity conservation, especially fauna.
  • Enforces standards for animal upkeep and healthcare in zoos.

Controls the proliferation of unplanned, ill-conceived zoos across the country.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times