A three-day regional training programme for Zoo Keepers in Central India commenced on October 7, 2026, at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal. Organized jointly by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and IIFM, the programme aims to strengthen the professional capacities of zoo keepers in various aspects.
The three-day regional training programme for Zoo Keepers of zoos in Central India started on October 7, 2026, at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal. Organized jointly by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) and IIFM from 7th – 9th October, 2026, the programme aims to strengthen the professional capacities of zoo keepers in captive animal care, behaviour, facility operations, and conservation education.
As per the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, one function of the Central Zoo Authority is to coordinate training for zoo personnel. Recognizing that zookeepers form the operational backbone of zoological parks and are directly responsible for daily animal management, this regional initiative provides both technical classroom sessions and hands-on field visit at Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal.
In his inaugural address, Director (IIFM), Dr. K. Ravichandran, recognized zookeepers as the frontline foundation of daily zoo operations, stating that their dedication plays a crucial role in the success of zoo management. He emphasized the importance of grounding keepers in structured technical training and safety protocols to boost operational efficiency, lower on-the-job risks, and strengthen the role of zoos in conservation education.
Addressing the session, Member Secretary (CZA), Dr. V. Clement Ben, underscored the importance of animal keepers in zoo management, as their daily vigilance provides early indicators of an animal's health and welfare. Modern zookeeping requires continuous learning, strict safety practices, and disciplined record-keeping. He urged keepers to treat safety as a daily culture and foster close teamwork with veterinarians and managers, reminding them that their daily work directly shapes animal welfare, operational safety, and conservation outcomes.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
