Patna: Rajgir Zoo Safari and Bihar Veterinary College on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in wildlife healthcare, research, veterinary education and conservation.
The agreement was signed by Ramsundar M, Director of Rajgir Zoo Safari, and Dr Pallav Shekhar, Dean of Bihar Veterinary College, in the presence of Nesamani K, Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Patna.
The partnership aims to promote research in wildlife health and management while expanding practical learning opportunities for veterinary students.
Focus On Research And Student Training
Under the agreement, students of Bihar Veterinary College will be offered internships and research opportunities at Rajgir Zoo Safari, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in the treatment, rescue, immobilisation and handling of both captive and wild animals.
The two institutions will also share equipment, scientific data and other facilities to support wildlife research and improve veterinary practices.
Strengthening Wildlife Healthcare
As part of the collaboration, Bihar Veterinary College will provide technical expertise to upgrade the veterinary hospital and pathological laboratory at Rajgir Zoo Safari. Both institutions will also make mutual use of laboratory facilities for diagnostic testing and wildlife health management.
The college will assist in designing transportation and crating systems used during animal exchange programmes between zoos and provide technical support for the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals.
Capacity Building And Knowledge Sharing
The MoU also provides for joint training programmes, workshops and capacity-building initiatives for veterinary students, faculty members, forest officers and zoo staff.
Officials said the collaboration would facilitate the exchange of expertise and strengthen institutional capacity in wildlife healthcare and conservation.
Building On An Existing Partnership
Rajgir Zoo Safari and Bihar Veterinary College have already worked closely on veterinary care for zoo animals, with the college providing access to its advanced laboratories for pathological testing of animal samples.
Rajgir Zoo Safari, Bihar’s first zoo safari, is equipped with specialised facilities for wildlife treatment and health management. It is home to several endangered species and has recorded successful breeding of Asiatic lions.
Officials said the new agreement formalises and expands the existing partnership, with both institutions committing to collaborative research, knowledge sharing and improved standards of wildlife welfare.
