The new Royal Bengal tiger allocated from Guwahati Zoo, is finally exhibited in the Aizawl Zoological Park for public visit. The exhibition ceremony was graced by T.J. Lalnuntluanga, Minister of Enivironment, Forest and Climate Change. The tiger was transported from Guwahati on February 14 under a one-time animal exchange programme.
The minister stated that after scouting different zoological parks in India, Guwahati Zoo was able to provide a tiger couple. After taking the consent of The Central Zoo Authority, a deal was made on the terms that the tigers would be exchanged with a Gibbon couple. “Animals are not meant for to be bought as products hence they are often exchanged among different zoological parks” he added.
The Environment and Forest Minister has noted that the initial arrangement for a female and male tiger to be exchanged for a Gibbon couple could not be carried out on account of certain unforseen circumstances. Hence, they were able to set off with just one tigress. Zoo authorities are currently on the lookout for the new tigress’s companion.
After the exhibition, the Minister sat down with the media and reporters. After the breach of contract from the Guwahati Zoo, the Minister responds to the questions regarding the quest for a new Tiger, “ In our estimation, it is just a matter of aiming upon better and younger tiger at other Zoological Parks, as of now”. He also added that the funds for the maintenance of the tiger has been provided by the Finance department.
Currently, there are 21 animals in the Zoological Park and measures have been taken to increase the number. He added that they have been meaning to extend the Zoological Park to a Botanical Garden.
