**Executive Summary**
The National Zoological Park celebrated the International Day of Forests on March 21, 2026, through a series of educational outreach programs and a plantation drive. The event aimed to enhance public awareness of forest ecosystems and wildlife conservation, drawing approximately 18,000 visitors. Key activities included student tours, habitat enrichment through shrub planting, and interactive conservation sessions.
**Key Points / Main Content**
* **Educational Initiatives**
* Students from Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences participated in guided tours focused on the ecological importance of animal enclosures.
* A specialized presentation session was held to highlight the role of zoos in wildlife conservation and biodiversity preservation.
* The Zoo Director conducted an interaction session to share insights into the park's ongoing conservation efforts and operational functions.
* **Habitat Enrichment and Plantation**
* A plantation drive was carried out at the newly renovated bird enclosure located at Beat Number 11.
* Zoo staff and beat keepers planted 58 shrubs of various species to strengthen the park's green cover and enrich the habitat.
* **Public Participation**
* The event coincided with Eid-ul-Fitr, resulting in a high footfall of 18,000 visitors.
* Nearly 1,500 visitors engaged in a conservation-themed doodle activity to express ideas on biodiversity and forest preservation.
* The program successfully reinforced sustainable environmental practices and the importance of biodiversity among a broad audience.
**Impact Analysis**
**Students (Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences)**
**Impact**
They received practical education on forest ecosystems, the role of zoos in conservation, and the ecological significance of various species.
**Action Required**
Participate in guided tours, educational presentations, and the interaction session with the Zoo Director.
**National Zoological Park Staff and Beat Keepers**
**Impact**
Staff were responsible for facilitating educational sessions and executing physical habitat improvements within the park.
**Action Required**
Conduct guided tours, lead presentations, and plant 58 shrubs at the Beat Number 11 bird enclosure.
**General Public and Visitors**
**Impact**
Visitors were exposed to conservation messages through creative activities and a vibrant, educational environment during a high-traffic festive period.
**Action Required**
Engage with zoo exhibits and participate in organized conservation-themed activities, such as the doodle session.
Key Entities Referenced
National Zoological Park: The primary entity that organized educational outreach, plantation drives, and conservation-themed activities.
International Day of Forests: The global observance that served as the focal point for the zoo's awareness and biodiversity conservation initiatives.
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change: The nodal ministry overseeing the activities and administration of the National Zoological Park.
Bhaskaracharya College of Applied Sciences, University of Delhi: The educational institution that participated in the specialized sessions on wildlife conservation and environmental education.
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
National Zoological Park Marks International Day
of Forests with Educational Outreach and
Plantation Drive
Posted On: 21 MAR 2026 7:47PM by PIB Delhi
The National Zoological Park on Saturday celebrated the International Day of Forests with enthusiastic
public participation, drawing around 18,000 visitors and engaging nearly 1,500 people in conservation-
themed activities.
The day began with a guided educational tour of the zoo, wherein students from Bhaskaracharya College
of Applied Sciences, University of Delhi, were provided with informative insights into various animal
enclosures and their ecological importance by the zoo staff.
The initiative aimed to enhance awareness about forest ecosystems and the role of wildlife conservation.
Sixty students from Bhaskaracharya College participated in an engaging presentation session following
their zoo visit. The session focused on the critical role of zoos in wildlife conservation, environmental
education, and the preservation of biodiversity.
The programme concluded with an informative interaction session with the Zoo Director, who shared
valuable insights into ongoing conservation efforts and the functioning of the National Zoological Park.
Marking the occasion, plantation activities were also undertaken within the zoo premises. At the newly
renovated bird enclosure of Beat Number 11, a total of 58 shrubs of various species were planted by the
beat keeper and zoo staff, contributing towards habitat enrichment and strengthening the green cover.
Owing to the festive occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, the zoo witnessed a significant footfall of approximately
18,000 visitors, creating a vibrant and energetic environment. Around 1,500 visitors actively participated
in a specially organized doodle activity, where they creatively expressed their thoughts and ideas on forest
conservation and biodiversity.
The celebration successfully reinforced the importance of forests, biodiversity conservation, and
sustainable environmental practices among visitors and students alike.
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VM/GS
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