Want to learn about nature? Go to the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological park in Katraj, Pune

Pune: The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological park in Katraj is not only a famous tourist attraction, but offers a learning experience for environment lovers. Over the past six months, the park has hosted over 25 workshops on wild life conservation and environmental awareness.

The workshops, held by authorities on every fourth Monday and Tuesday of each month, saw participation from school children, foreigners and students learning veterinary science. “As a part of the environmental awareness initiative, we also conduct an annual three-day summer camp every year. Children are shown presentations and puppet shows based on issues such as environment degradation,” said Ashwini Yadav, an official from Rajiv Gandhi Zoological park.
The officials introduce the participants to the zoo and explain to them about the animals, their nature, diet, and habits. Children are encouraged to observe wild animals and the plant varieties in the zoo. “Children tend to have misconceptions about wildlife, especially reptiles and birds. But we explain the various characteristics of these animals to them so that they are aware of the facts.” Yadav added. The zoo also offers animal adoption schemes wherein organisations such as schools and offices, can adopt a wild animal and provide for their stay in the zoo.