Delhi Zoo Adopts Vantara Model For Major Overhaul, Staff Training Underway

The National Zoological Park in Delhi is undergoing a significant transformation, moving from traditional methods to a modern administrative and management model inspired by Gujarat's Vantara. To facilitate this shift, special training sessions have been launched to enhance the skills and efficiency of the zoo's staff, aiming to improve animal management and align the facility with international standards.

A six-member expert team from the Gujarat-based Green Zoological Rescue and Research Centre (Vantara) is in Delhi to conduct the training. The sessions are designed for staff across all departments, including animal husbandry, medical care, maintenance, sanitation, record management, and visitor safety. The Vantara team is sharing its expertise on scientific approaches to animal health, diet, enrichment and behavioral management.

Zoo Director Dr Sanjiv Kumar emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, "Improving the knowledge and perspective of the staff is essential for effective wildlife conservation and management. The training of wildlife and zoo management staff should be a continuous process so that every employee becomes proficient in scientific management, animal behaviour studies, and safety standards."

This seven-day training program is part of a broader improvement plan for the zoo, which has faced criticism in recent years for animal mortality rates and disorganised management. The current focus is on capacity building and transparent operations. The training covers:

- New methods for animals' daily routines

- Enrichment techniques to reduce stress

- Proper enclosure cleaning and maintenance

- Environmental control and health monitoring

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Vantara experts noted that incorporating technology into zoo management helps reduce stress in animals, which in turn increases their lifespan and reproductive capacity. According to sources, the Delhi Zoo is also considering establishing a research-based animal care unit based on the Vantara model and plans a future technical partnership to further streamline maintenance and animal welfare.

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Zoo To Reopen Next Month

The Delhi Zoo, which was temporarily closed due to a recent bird flu outbreak, is preparing to welcome visitors again. The zoo administration has confirmed that the situation is now under control and all necessary precautions are being taken. The zoo is scheduled to reopen to the general public after October 30.