India’s first zoo-based biobank

India’s first zoo-based biobank has been established at Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (PNHZP) in Darjeeling, West Bengal.

• The facility, also known as a ‘frozen zoo,’became operational in July 2024 as part of a collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• The biobank collects and preserves DNA materials, cellular and tissue samples from endangered animals, as well as reproductive cells from deceased specimens.
• The initiative supports wildlife conservation, genetic research, and potential revival of critically endangered or extinct species.
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, established on August 14, 1958, is known for breeding high-altitude herbivores and pheasants.
• The zoo gained international recognition for its red panda conservation program, which was shortlisted for a global conservation award by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) in October 2024.