By Avni Arya
Copyright timesnownews
New Delhi: Delhi’s National Zoological Park has lost its only African elephant, Shankar, who died on Wednesday night. The news was confirmed by officials on Thursday, with an inquiry ordered to determine the cause of death. Shankar, a male elephant, was gifted to India by Zimbabwe in 1996 and brought to the Delhi Zoo two years later, in 1998. For nearly three decades, he remained one of the zoo’s biggest attractions. Delhi Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar told PTI, “A detailed inquiry will be carried out to determine the reason.” He added that the investigation has been initiated to ascertain the exact cause of death. According to zoo sources, Shankar had not been eating properly for the past few days, raising concerns about his health before his passing. Elephant population in India India is home to the largest population of Asian elephants, with nearly 30,000 roaming its forests and grasslands. These gentle giants are spread mainly across southern and north-eastern states such as Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Assam. Recognised as a keystone species, elephants play a vital role in maintaining forest health by dispersing seeds and creating pathways for other animals. Yet, they face serious threats from shrinking habitats, human-elephant conflict, poaching and accidents on rail tracks. Listed as endangered, the Asian elephant is protected under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, making conservation efforts crucial for their survival. (With inputs from PTI) Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Delhi and around the world.
