Andhra Pradesh: PCCF (HoFF) Dr. P. V. Chalapathi Rao releases Black Panther into Indira Gandhi Zoo Park premises in Visakhapatnam

After a hiatus of 40 years, the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) in Visakhapatnam officially released a female black leopard into the park’s enclosure today, a ceremony presided over by the PCCF & HoFF, Dr. P.V. Chalapathi Rao.

This rare black panther was acquired last March from the Assam State Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden under an animal exchange program. This addition not only stands as a significant enhancement to the zoo’s animal collection but also further strengthens its conservation, education, and biodiversity initiatives.

The formal release of the Black Panther, along with the inauguration of upgraded enclosures for Sloth Bear, Wolf, Jackal and Red-necked Wallaby was addressed by Dr. P. V. Chalapathi Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden (FAC), Andhra Pradesh, Mangalagiri.

The enclosure upgradation has been undertaken to enhance animal welfare, enrichment and overall well being. The program was accompanied by Sri B. Mohamed Diwan Mydeen, Chief Conservator of Forests, Visakhapatnam, and Sri Ravindra Dhama, IFS, DFO, Visakhapatnam, along with other senior officials and zoo staff members, said Smt. G. Mangamma, Curator, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park.

Animal adoption continues to play an integral role in zoo management and conservation support. The zoo warmly welcomes its animal adopters. The Black Panther has been adopted by Nihira Malineni, the youngest animal adopter at approximately 21 months of age, grand daughter of Sri. M.V. Ranga Prasad & Sri. C. Pattabhi Rama Rao.

A donation of ₹1,25,000 (Rupees One Lakh Twenty-Five Thousand only) has been contributed through cheque for the adoption of the Black Panther for a period of one year, from 21.04.2026 to 20.04.2027 under the Animal Adoption Scheme of Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Visakhapatnam.

The zoo also acknowledges Rhino Rock Solid Insulation (Sarda Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd) for adopting the Indian Rhinoceros under the CSR initiative for a period of one year from 01.04.2026 to 31.03.2027. An amount of ₹3,00,000 (Rupees Three Lakhs only) has been contributed under CSR towards this adoption, supporting wildlife care and conservation at the zoo.

Dr. P. V. Chalapathi Rao, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden (FAC), Andhra Pradesh, Mangalagiri, formally acknowledged the contributions of animal adopters i.e.,

Nihira Malineni for the Black Panther and Rhino Rock Solid Insulation Company for the Indian Rhinoceros under the CSR initiative for their support towards ex-situ conservation and animal management. The adopters were presented with Animal Adoption Certificates and souvenir kits and it was stated that the Animal Adoption Scheme provides structured engagement opportunities and associated privileges to the contributors.

The donation is eligible for exemption under Section 80G(5) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, as per Proceedings No. DIT(E)/HYD/80G/45(08)/10-11 dated 18.02.2011 of the Director of Income Tax (Exemptions).The programme was attended by Nihira Malineni along with her parents and representatives from Rhino Rock Solid Insulation (Sarda Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd), including Mr. Rama Krishna, Assistant Manager (HR), along with team members said Smt. G. Mangamma, Curator, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park.