Celebrate Special Moments by Adopting an Animal at Delhi Zoo

Delhi Zoo is introducing short-term animal adoption options for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. This initiative aims to boost engagement with wildlife, increase visitor footfall, and enhance revenue. The program, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, focuses on animal conservation and simplifying the adoption process.

Delhiites will soon have the unique opportunity to celebrate special occasions like birthdays and wedding anniversaries by adopting an animal at the Delhi Zoo, officials announced on Thursday.

In a first, the National Zoological Park, located in the heart of the national capital, plans to introduce short-term adoption options. This initiative aims to make it easier for people to engage with wildlife, thereby increasing visitor footfall and revenue.

According to officials, adopters will bear the associated costs as determined by the zoo, covering the animal's food and other necessities. Adopters will receive a certificate and photographs to make them feel 'special,' with perks varying depending on the chosen package.

The animal adoption program, which started during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to spread the message of animal conservation and encourage people to connect with nature, said Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar.

The zoo currently allows adoptions for one or two years, mainly by corporates. However, this year, only four companies have participated, prompting the zoo to make the process more accessible to individuals.

'We aim to allow people to adopt animals for as little as a month or even a day to mark their significant moments meaningfully. This move will foster a stronger connection between humans and animals,' Kumar added.

Plans include options for adopting an animal for six months, one month, or even a day. For example, one could adopt a Chinkara (Indian gazelle) for a year at Rs 15,000, Kumar explained. Day-long adoptions for birthdays or other special celebrations could range from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500.

The zoo will prominently display information about the new adoption options outside the entrance to ensure visitors are well-informed. Simplifying the currently lengthy adoption process aims to encourage more participation and enhance human-animal interactions, Kumar said.