Chennai: The animal adoption programme in Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP) in Vandalur is gathering momentum with many volunteers, actors and corporate companies coming forward to join it.
A document accessed by Deccan Chronicle shows that the zoo authority has received over Rs 70 lakh in the last nine years. Aimed at creating love, affection, compassion and kindness among people towards animals, in 2009, the zoo authority launched the animal adoption programme..
"One can adopt any animal species for any number of days, weeks, months and years, according to paying capability. So far, 159 individuals, private companies and government undertakings and banks have come forward to adopt different species of animals," the document said, adding that zoo officials earned Rs 71,61,207.52 from the adoption programme since 2009 till date.
The document further stated that corporates like BHEL, SBI, TTDC, TNPL, PRR & Sons, TVS, TPFIDC Ltd, ARC Ltd, Polaris and Nagarjuna Oil Corporation have actively been involving in the adoption programme. Interestingly, famous celebrities like actors Surya, Karthik, Sivakarthikeyan and a few political parties have also been contributing to this programme. "Animals like the lion, tiger, elephant and peafowl are the most preferred animals that are adopted by these companies and personalities," it said.
The details of adopters can be seen on the website- www.aazp.in and animal coordinators of AAZP can be contacted for further details on animal adoption. People who want to join the programme can contact: 9445228332- 9894882490. "We are not using such funds to take up other works in the zoo, but spend the money to buy food for the animals. The feeding costs of zoo inmates per day have been calculated and the chart is provided to people willing to adopt, based on requests. All funds are spent for animal welfare," said an official.
Speaking to DC, Sudha Ramen, Deputy Director of AAZP, said, "The zoo authority is very happy, as the animal adoption programme in the zoo has received a good response from people from all walks of life." They expect more people and government and private organizations to join the programme in the coming days, the DD added.
What kind of benefits do the animal adopters get?
They get exemption from the Income Tax Act under section 80 (g) for the amount they spend on animal adoption at AAZP
They become ambassadors to spread awareness about animal conservation
They develop a special and unique bonding with the animal community and inspire fellow citizens to also follow them
