Darjeeling, March 2025: India has taken a groundbreaking step in wildlife conservation by establishing its first “frozen zoo” at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling, West Bengal. This initiative aims to preserve the DNA of critically endangered species, including red pandas, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, screw-horned goats (markhors), and Himalayan black bears.
The frozen zoo will store genetic material at -196°C in liquid nitrogen, ensuring long-term preservation. These samples, collected from both captive and wild animals, could later be used for assisted reproductive techniques, including artificial insemination, in-vitro fertilization (IVF), and cloning to help revive dwindling populations.
A Lifeline for Himalayan Wildlife
The Eastern Himalayas are home to over 300 mammal species, many of which face habitat loss, climate change, and poaching threats. By safeguarding genetic material, the frozen zoo acts as a biological backup, ensuring that even if a species declines in the wild, efforts can be made to reintroduce genetically diverse populations.
This project is being developed in collaboration with Hyderabad’s Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), a leading research institute in genetic conservation.
India’s Commitment to Conservation
Officials believe the frozen zoo will play a critical role in the global fight against species extinction. Similar initiatives in San Diego (USA) and London (UK) have successfully aided conservation efforts, and India’s move is expected to contribute significantly to Himalayan biodiversity protection.
With this step, India reinforces its commitment to safeguarding its unique wildlife heritage, blending cutting-edge science with conservation efforts to ensure a sustainable future for endangered species.-AirMedia Broadcast
