Goa Governor P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju visits Sepahijala Zoo in Tripura, urging citizens to take responsibility for wildlife conservation and environmental protection. The visit highlights the importance of sustainable coexistence and community-driven ecological awareness.
In a visit that underscored the importance of environmental awareness and collective responsibility, Goa Governor Pashupati Ashok Gajapathi Raju on Thursday toured the Sepahijala Zoological Park in Tripura, accompanied by his wife. The visit formed a significant part of his official trip to the state and reflected his deep interest in wildlife conservation and ecological sustainability.
During his tour of the renowned zoological park, the Governor was given a comprehensive overview of the facility’s conservation initiatives, habitat management, and ongoing efforts to preserve endangered and indigenous species. The Sepahijala Zoo, one of Tripura’s most popular ecological attractions, houses a wide variety of fauna, including rare species of clouded leopards, primates, reptiles, and avian species native to the northeastern region.
The Governor and his wife were received by a delegation of senior officials, including Sepahijala District Additional District Magistrate & Collector Subhash Dutta, Zoo Director Siddhartha Debbarma, District Forest Officer Atanu Chakraborty, Wildlife Warden Niranjan Debnath, Additional Superintendent of Police Rajib Sutradhar, Bishalgarh Sub-Divisional Police Officer Vikas Synthia, and Zoo Curator Pranatosh Das. Together, they provided a detailed briefing on the zoo’s infrastructure, conservation goals, and the welfare standards maintained for its resident animals.
Governor Raju took a keen interest in the zoo’s layout, animal enclosures, and breeding programs. He interacted with the staff and appreciated their commitment to maintaining ecological balance while ensuring animal welfare. The delegation also discussed long-term plans for enhancing visitor awareness, scientific research, and community-based wildlife protection projects.
Speaking to reporters after the tour, Governor Raju shared thoughtful remarks on the broader role of society in protecting biodiversity. “Generally, wildlife enthusiasts prefer to see animals in their natural habitat. But it is equally important to protect these animals and minimize disturbances to their ecosystems,” he said.
He emphasized that sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife depends on awareness and responsible behavior. “If proper measures are taken and communities participate, many indigenous species have the potential to recover and thrive,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the growing environmental crisis, Governor Raju urged every citizen to take personal responsibility for protecting the natural world. “The environment is continuously declining. We cannot rely solely on the government. Every citizen has a duty to be aware and contribute to the overall well-being of nature,” he remarked, stressing that environmental protection begins with individual consciousness and everyday choices.
He also commended the Tripura Forest Department and Sepahijala Zoo authorities for their dedicated efforts toward conservation and ecological education. “Such institutions play a vital role in building awareness among children and the general public about the importance of conserving flora and fauna,” he noted.
Earlier, Governor Raju was warmly received by Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu upon his arrival in the state on Wednesday. The two dignitaries discussed a range of topics, including regional environmental challenges, inter-state cooperation on forest conservation, and sustainable development strategies in the Northeast.
The visit to Sepahijala Zoo highlights the growing national emphasis on environmental stewardship and wildlife protection as India continues to balance economic progress with ecological preservation.
Officials from the zoo later stated that the Governor’s visit has further motivated them to strengthen awareness campaigns and enhance the quality of animal care. They also expressed hope that such high-profile visits will draw more attention to the region’s biodiversity and the need for stronger environmental policies.
Located about 28 km from Agartala, Sepahijala Zoological Park spans over 18 square kilometers and is home to hundreds of animal species, making it one of the largest conservation centers in Tripura. Apart from its zoological exhibits, the park also serves as a biological research and education hub, drawing thousands of visitors, students, and environmentalists annually.
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Governor Raju’s visit concluded with a call for collective responsibility, urging all citizens to become active partners in preserving the environment for future generations. “Nature gives us everything we need. The least we can do is protect it with gratitude and awareness,” he said.
