103rd Foundation Day of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Park Celebrated with Grandeur

Lucknow: The Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Park, Lucknow, celebrated its 103rd Foundation Day with vibrant festivities at the Saras Auditorium. Dr. Arun Kumar, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Forest, Environment, Zoo, and Climate Change Department, Uttar Pradesh, graced the event as the Chief Guest. The Special Guest was Mr. K.P. Malik, Minister of State for the same department. The celebration witnessed the presence of eminent personalities, including Mr. Sudhir Kumar Sharma, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Department, Uttar Pradesh, and Mrs. Aditi Sharma, Director of the Zoological Park.

The ceremony commenced with the school band of CMS, Gomti Nagar, playing Saare Jahan Se Achcha Hindustan Hamara, welcoming the dignitaries. Dr. Arun Kumar inaugurated the newly constructed entry plaza, developed under the aegis of NTPC’s CSR initiative. The plaza, a significant addition for visitor convenience, was admired by all dignitaries.

Honoring Contributions and Inspiring Awareness

The Foundation Day saw heartfelt tributes to the former administrators and directors of the zoo, recognizing their invaluable contributions with shawls and mementoes. These veterans reminisced about their time at the zoo, sharing experiences that highlighted its growth over the years.

In her address,  Aditi Sharma emphasized the importance of collective efforts in achieving milestones and acknowledged the continued support of NTPC, adopters, and visitors. On the occasion,  Sunaina Chaudhary adopted a leopard cat for six months, contributing to the zoo’s welfare.

Dr. Arun Kumar lauded the zoo’s century-long legacy and expressed his admiration for its evolving infrastructure and conservation initiatives. Inspired by the adopters, he committed to adopting a wild animal from the zoo.

Celebrating Wildlife and Raising Awareness

The Foundation Day also included vibrant activities like a wildlife and environment rally by students from River Side Academy and Amicus Academy. A stunning rangoli on wildlife conservation, crafted by River Side Academy students and teachers, captured the essence of environmental awareness.

A 15-minute documentary on the Sarus crane, Uttar Pradesh’s state bird, was unveiled by the chief guest. Created by the Sarus Conservation Committee, the documentary aims to raise awareness about crane conservation among the public, especially schoolchildren. Additionally, a documentary on the zoological park’s history and objectives was launched, inviting visitors to explore it at the Saras Auditorium.

Connecting Children with Nature

In his speech,  K.P. Malik highlighted the need to strike a balance between technology and nature in children’s lives. He suggested organizing annual programs to reconnect them with wildlife and culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

A Legacy of Conservation

Sudhir Kumar Sharma praised the zoo’s contribution as a “lung” for Lucknow, purifying the city’s air and educating the public about wildlife. He commended the collective efforts of zoo staff, NTPC, and adopters, which have positioned the zoological park among the best in the country.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dinesh Badola, Regional Forest Officer, who expressed gratitude to all participants for making the day memorable.

The 103rd Foundation Day celebrations showcased the rich heritage, ongoing conservation efforts, and a vision for the future of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Park, solidifying its place as a vital ecological and educational hub in Lucknow.

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