Punjab Government kicks off animal adoption scheme

LUDHIANA - The Punjab Government has initiated an animal adoption scheme, where they have offered a chance to adopt wild animals and birds from major zoos of the state, to promote community involvement for animal care.

Under the scheme, any individual, trust or organization can adopt an animal or bird for a year or a few months and contribute towards feeding the animal, maintenance of hygiene and cleanliness of enclosures and meet medical costs.

The scheme will be available at the Mohindra Chaudhury Zoological Park at Chhatbir, zoos in Ludhiana, Bathinda and Patiala, a deer park at Neelon on the Ludhiana-Chandigarh road and an aviary at Patiala.

“Those who are keen to adopt a wild animal, we provide them specific information about the upkeep of the animal in the zoo. It’s the duty of every human being to contribute to the conservation of wild animals as human beings are only responsible for disturbing their natural habitat and placing them in captivity,” said Vishal Chauhan, District forest officer of Ludhiana.

The Punjab Youth Forum, an NGO in Ludhiana, has adopted almost ten birds and animals from Ludhiana zoo, and has also been working to inspire people to adopt wild animals.

“We are trying to convince people to adopt wild animals and birds and contribute towards feeding the animal. The annual expense to adopt a lion is 1,800 dollars, where as a deer costs 250 dollars and a bear costs 680 to 800 dollars. There are many people who donate money for organizing community meal at religious places. So, we approach them to adopt wild animals. Through the conservation of wild animals, we can maintain nature’s balance, which is important for both the environment and geography,” said Dr. Kripal Singh, convener of Punjab Youth Forum.

Ranjit, a man who has adopted an animal, said that it is a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with the nature.

“By adopting an animal, it helps us to remain connected with nature. If we don’t take up this responsibility, I believe, we are vulnerable to doing anything for the environment,” Ranjit said.

After adoption, the person will have the right to check the diet and living conditions of the animal and can seek an explanation about anything pertaining to the adopted animal from the authorities. By Karan Kapoor (ANI)