New Wildlife Forensics Centre Opens in Kolkata to Combat Wildlife Crimes

The Zoological Survey of India inaugurated a Centre for Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genomics in Kolkata. This new facility aims to combat wildlife crime and protect biodiversity using advanced genomic and forensic technologies. The centre was established with support from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) launched a groundbreaking Centre for Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genomics in Kolkata on Friday, aimed at protecting India's biodiversity and battling wildlife crime.

Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director of ZSI, emphasized the centre's significance: 'By integrating advanced genomic and forensic technologies, we are enhancing our ability to trace and prosecute wildlife criminals and setting new standards for conservation research.'

Inaugurated by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Secretary Leena Nandan, the facility will support law enforcement and establish new benchmarks in wildlife conservation. Scientist Mukesh Thakur will coordinate the centre, which received a special financial grant from the ministry.

(With inputs from agencies.)