Mysuru: A three-day training programme for Zoo Executive Directors, Deputy Directors, Veterinarians, Range Forest Officers (RFOs), Deputy Range Forest Officers (DRFOs), animal keepers and other selected staff of all the Zoos in the State began at Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (Mysuru Zoo) here this morning.

The programme was inaugurated by Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK) Chairperson Mallige Veeresh in the presence of Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF), ZAK, B.P. Ravi, Retired Technical Member of Central Zoo Authority (CZA) Y.S. Yelakhi, ZAK Members Amjad Khan and Tukaram and Mysuru Zoo Executive Director C. Ravishankar.

Mallige Veeresh said that the programme was being held on maintenance of zoos, animal exchange programmes between zoos, development of zoos, animals and birds care, safety and security and revenue boosting. Stating that the Hampi Zoo would be inaugurated by CM Siddharamaiah on Nov. 3, Mallige Veeresh said that maintaining a zoo is not a joke as a lot of commitment and collective efforts are needed.

APCCF B.P. Ravi said that there was an increase in man-animal conflicts and added that the Forest Department was working to prevent such conflicts to protect humans and wild animals. Stating that Mysuru Zoo has bagged the No. 1 positions in the travelers list, he said that this was achieved because of the collective efforts of the Zoo staff.

Herbivorous Park at Hampi

Ravi said that the Herbivorous Park at Hampi would be inaugurated on Nov.3. He said that the park is expected to emerge as an added attraction  for tourists visiting Hampi. A sustainable concept is necessary for any zoo to sustain.

Retired CZA Technical Member Y.S. Yelakhi said that Mysuru Zoo was one of the best Zoos in the country and added that this was a result of the works taken up by committed Directors who worked at the Zoo.

Mysuru Zoo Executive Director C. Ravishankar told SOM that Conservation Talk which has been stopped for sometime would commence soon and added that the Zoo will also come up with a Botanical Club shortly.