Coal India adopts Newtown's mini zoo; will take care of operations and maintenance

In an unprecedented move for West Bengal, state-owned enterprise Coal India Limited has formally adopted the entire New Town Mini Zoo. This groundbreaking development marks a significant departure from the long-standing practice of individual animal adoption in zoos across the state, including those in Alipore, Jhargram, and Darjeeling. Zoo authorities in New Town have confirmed that this is the first instance of an entire zoo being adopted by an organization in West Bengal.

The formal agreement between Coal India and the New Town Mini Zoo authorities was finalized during a World Environment Day event. As per the terms of the agreement, Coal India Limited will undertake the responsibility for the zoo's operations and maintenance for an initial period of one year. Saurabh Dutta, Member Secretary of the West Bengal Zoo Authority, confirmed the one-year contract, adding that there is a possibility of extending the tenure for another year based on mutual agreement and performance.

The concept of animal adoption has been prevalent for many years in various zoos across West Bengal. Individuals, schools, colleges, and organizations frequently adopt animals, taking on the responsibility for their daily food, water, care, and overall upkeep. However, the adoption of an entire zoo is a novel concept that has been widely welcomed by state forest officials, who view it as an exceptional step towards public-private partnership in wildlife conservation.

The New Town Mini Zoo is an integral part of Eco Park, one of Kolkata's most popular recreational destinations. Originally established as a deer park by HIDCO in 2016 on approximately 15 acres of land near Gate Number 6 of Eco Park, it aimed to enhance visitor attraction to this "nature pilgrimage." In 2023, the West Bengal Zoo Authority expanded and upgraded it into the "Mini Zoo" it is today, housing a more diverse range of wildlife.

This adoption by Coal India is expected to bring substantial financial and operational support to the New Town Mini Zoo. The resources provided by a large public sector undertaking like Coal India can significantly contribute to improving infrastructure, enhancing animal welfare, and potentially expanding the zoo's conservation and educational programs. This move sets a new benchmark for corporate social responsibility in the realm of wildlife management.