About CZA

• The Central Zoo Authority is a statutory body established in 1992 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. 
• The Authority functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and consists of a Chairman, ten members and a Member Secretary. 

Objectives

• The main objective of the Authority is to complement and strengthen the national effort in conservation of the rich biodiversity of the country, particularly the fauna as per the National Zoo Policy, 1998. 
• Other objectives of the Authority include – enforcing minimum standards and norms for upkeep and healthcare of animals in Indian zoos and to control mushrooming of unplanned and ill-conceived zoos.

Functions

• Every zoo in the country is required to obtain recognition from the Authority for its operation. 
• The Authority evaluates the zoos with reference to the parameters prescribed under the Rules and grants recognition, accordingly.  
• The Authority’s role is more of a facilitator than a regulator. It therefore provides technical and financial assistance to such zoos which have the potential to attain the desired standard in animal management. 
• Apart from the primary function of grant of recognition, the Central Zoo Authority also regulates the exchange of animals of endangered category listed under Schedule- I and II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 among zoos.  

Exchange of animals between Indian and foreign zoos is also approved by the Authority.