What is Central Zoo Authority (CZA)? Static GK Of CZA In English Language

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) serves as India's top regulatory body for zoos, set up in 1992 through the Wildlife (Protection) Act to boost animal welfare and conservation efforts nationwide.

Working independently under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, it oversees more than 200 approved zoos, enforcing strict global standards for animal enclosures, veterinary care, and day-to-day management. Through targeted breeding initiatives and ongoing research, CZA has reshaped zoos into key centers for protecting endangered species and biodiversity.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Central Zoo Authority (CZA)
Established	1992, under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
Initial Objectives	Enforce minimum standards for animal housing, upkeep, healthcare, and management in zoos; prevent unplanned zoo growth and promote conservation
Headquarters	New Delhi
Current Head	Dr. Abhishek Chaturvedi (Member Secretary, as of latest records)
Total Recognized Zoos	Over 200 (164 fully recognized; evaluated 347 total)

Objectives of CZA

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) pursues key goals to strengthen zoo operations and wildlife protection in India.

It promotes wild animal conservation by leveraging zoos for captive breeding and habitat support.
CZA regulates all zoos, enforcing strict standards for animal housing, health care, and ethical practices.
It coordinates zoo activities nationwide, fostering collaboration and shared best practices among facilities.
Financial and technical aid flows from CZA to approved zoos for upgrades and sustainable management.
Research on zoo animals, breeding techniques, and management drives innovation and long-term species recovery.
Public education campaigns highlight wildlife conservation, positioning zoos as vital learning centers.

Structure of CZA

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) operates as a statutory body with a streamlined leadership structure under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

It features a Chairman—typically the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change—supported by ten members from government, experts, and zoo representatives, plus a Member Secretary for day-to-day operations.

Composition Details

This compact team, headquartered in New Delhi, ensures balanced decision-making through diverse expertise in wildlife conservation and zoo management.

Members serve fixed terms, allowing fresh perspectives while maintaining continuity in regulating over 200 zoos nationwide.

Category	Area (hectares)	Animals Exhibited	Species Exhibited	Endangered Species
Large Zoo	≥75	≥750	≥75	≥15
Medium Zoo	50-75	500-750	50-75	10-15
Small Zoo	20-50	200-499	20-49	5-9
Mini Zoo	˅20	˅200	˅20	˅5

Functions of CZA

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) performs essential regulatory and support roles to enhance zoo standards and wildlife efforts across India.

It grants recognition to zoos and regularly monitors adherence to set standards for animal welfare and facilities.
CZA develops detailed guidelines and rules to govern effective zoo management and operations.
It manages animal exchanges between zoos, both within India and abroad, ensuring safe and ethical transfers.
Financial support is extended to zoos for infrastructure upgrades, maintenance, and overall development.
Research initiatives on zoo animals and management practices receive backing to advance conservation science.
Training programs are organized for zoo staff to build skills in animal care and facility operations.
Public awareness drives educate visitors on wildlife protection, emphasizing zoos' critical contributions.

Powers of CZA

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) holds key statutory powers to regulate zoos and enforce wildlife protection laws in India.

It has authority to recognize zoos, approving only those meeting prescribed standards for operation.

CZA grants permissions for acquiring wild or captive animals, ensuring ethical and legal procurement.
It takes cognizance of offenses related to zoo violations, initiating legal action when standards are breached.
CZA issues licences, ownership certificates, and formal recognitions essential for zoo functioning.

CZA remains active in zoo reforms and conservation as of early 2026.

Recent Meeting

The 43rd CZA meeting occurred on February 3, 2026, at National Zoological Park, Delhi, chaired by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav (or MoS Kirti Vardhan Singh per some reports), discussing ex-situ conservation and zoo management.

Decisions included forming a sub-committee for CSR funding in zoos and completing the second round of Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) nationwide.

Key Data

India has 155 recognized zoos under CZA as per recent counts, with ongoing evaluations of 347 total facilities (164 recognized).