Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling, West Bengal, has become India’s first zoo to preserve DNA samples of wildlife found in high-altitude snowy regions. This groundbreaking initiative aims to support future research and conservation efforts, especially for endangered species.
Key Highlights
First-of-its-Kind Initiative
- The zoo started collecting DNA samples in 2023 and has already preserved 60 DNA samples of indigenous species.
- Samples include tissue from red pandas, snow leopards, and other native species—collected from animals that died due to accidents or in captivity.
Objective of Project
- The DNA preservation project aims to study and conserve the rich biodiversity of the Himalayan region.
- If any species faces extinction, their genetic material can be used for research, restoration, and conservation efforts.
Cryogenic DNA Preservation
- The project is in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad.
- DNA samples are stored in a dedicated laboratory inside the zoo.
- The samples are kept in steel containers filled with liquid nitrogen at extremely low temperatures to ensure long-term preservation.
About Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
India’s Highest-Altitude Zoo
- Located at an altitude of 2,150 meters (7,050 feet), the zoo spans 67.8 acres.
- It specializes in breeding species adapted to alpine conditions and has successful captive breeding programs for: Snow Leopards; Red Pandas (critically endangered); Himalayan Wolves (endangered).
A Key Conservation & Research Hub
- Zoo is central hub for Central Zoo Authority of India’s red panda breeding program.
- It is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
- Houses other rare and endangered species, including: Siberian Tigers; Gorals (wild goat species); Rare Himalayan Birds.
Historical Significance
- Named after Padmaja Naidu (1900–1975), who served as 4th Governor of West Bengal.
About Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad
India’s Premier Research Institution in Molecular Biology
- Conducts high-quality research in biotechnology, genetics, and conservation.
- Develops cutting-edge techniques for interdisciplinary biological studies.
Establishment & Recognition
- Established on April 1, 1977, initially as a semi-autonomous centre under the Biochemistry Division of the Regional Research Laboratory (now Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, IICT).
- Became a full-fledged national laboratory in 1981–82, with its own Executive Committee and Scientific Advisory Council.
- Operates under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
- Designated as a “Centre of Excellence” by the Global Molecular and Cell Biology Network, UNESCO.