Animal Adoption at Chhatbir Zoo: This Heer rules hearts of kindergarten students of St John’s School

Among the other animals are a leopard called Pasha, Ragi the bear, a crocodile, tortoise, some pigeons, ducks, peacock and parrots.

Animal adoptions involve paying a sum of money for the animal’s maintenance in the zoo.

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The school initiated the move in 2011 with contributions from parents. This year, the school raised Rs 2 lakh, which the management said is given to the zoo for adoptions. To keep the process transparent, the parents make out the cheques directly to the zoo. The school management said the contribution was entirely voluntary.

Principal Kavita Das said, “Our motto ‘For God and Country’ inspires us to take up such endeavours as our focus is not solely on providing good quality education but also on overall development of the kids. Animals are one of the most important parts of the ecosystem and by bringing awareness among the kids at such an early age creates an unbreakable bond.”

Saksham, a student of class 1, said, “I love going to the zoo as I like observing the animals and their behaviour. I watch almost all the animals but bear is my favourite. I would love to adopt an eagle.”

His classmate Rishi said, “I love leopards and cheetahs.”

Chhatbir Zoo director Manish Kumar said, “We use the money given to us for the upkeep of the animals. The school authorities are provided with regular updates of the animals that they take up for adoption.” Acknowledging their contribution, the zoo has given the school kids special passes which they can use when they visit with their families.