PMC to implement pay-and-adopt scheme for animals to raise funds
Pune Mirror: Keeping wild animals as pets was the hobby of Indian royalty in the years gone by. Now, thanks to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), you could experience which is at least partly like that. To be precise, the PMC will now allow citizens to ‘adopt’ an animal which will be kept in the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park.
For instance, by paying about Rs 1,00,000 annually you can adopt a majestic Bengal tiger. If you don’t get along with tigers you can adopt the Indian national bird, the peacock for a year by donating Rs 3,000.
The unique scheme was introduced for first time in India in 1995 at the Mysore Zoological Park where it was a huge success. Inspired by its success, zoo administrations across the country adopted this scheme. Beginning this year, the PMC has introduced this scheme for the city’s famous Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park.
Adopting a bird or an animal means donating money to take care of their feeding costs. Adoption fees vary from Rs 500 for a small bird to Rs 1.5 lakh for a big animal like an elephant. After donating this money, the name of the sponsor will appear on the outside of the enclosure in which the animal is kept. Besides, once can claim tax rebates for the amount that has been donated.
According to the garden department’s proposal, any willing individuals or corporates can adopt an animal for one year to a maximum of five years. The sponsor would also get a certificate of adoption, free entry to the zoo and also possible coverage in the media.
Shekhar Nannajkar, a wildlife activist, said, “Every zoo in the country is facing a funding problem and that is why they are announcing such schemes. However, while implementing such schemes the authorities should take care that norms are not violated. People who would give money would obviously want some concession which should be within reasonable limits. It is important that the sponsor should not be allowed to go close to the animal or to feed them”
More articles by The Desk
- Actor Pankaj Jha will be holding his first solo exhibition 'No Mind’s Creation' in the city - March 17th, 2010
- IPL merchandise hit stores across the city - March 17th, 2010
- Cummins plans to reserve 30% posts for women - March 17th, 2010
- Scorpions are passion for Zoology student Aamod Zambre - March 17th, 2010
- New local job website for Pune - March 17th, 2010
