Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Context:

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) has become the first zoo in India to preserve DNA samples of high-altitude wildlife.

Relevance:
GS-03 (Conservation)

Key Highlights:

1. Cryogenic Preservation Initiative

PNHZP has launched a Cryogenic Preservation Initiative in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad.
The project involves storing DNA samples of rare and endangered species found in snowy regions.
The primary goal is to secure genetic material for future research and conservation.

2. Conservation Significance

Preserving DNA samples ensures that even if species face extinction, their genetic material remains available for scientific study and potential revival efforts.
The initiative strengthens biodiversity conservation and helps in understanding genetic diversity.

About Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP):

It is located in Darjeeling, West Bengal.
It is India’s highest-altitude zoological park.
The zoo is famously known for its conservation programs for Snow Leopards and Red Pandas.

Prelims Question:

Consider the following statements regarding the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP):

It is the first zoo in India to preserve DNA samples of wildlife species from snowy regions.
The Cryogenic Preservation Initiative at PNHZP was launched in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (a) 1 only

Explanation: The Cryogenic Preservation initiative was launched by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, not the Wildlife Institute of India.