Nagpur's Maharajbagh Zoo has recently received three pairs of hog deer and two peahens from Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden in Bilaspur as part of the Central Zoo Authority's (CZA) animal exchange program. The CZA, which operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, approved the proposal submitted by Maharajbagh Zoo in just two days, a feat that has left the zoo's management thrilled.

According to Dr. Sunil Bawaskar, Officer-in-Charge of Maharajbagh Zoo, Bilaspur Zoo originally asked for a leopard in exchange, but settled for the hog deer and peahens after obtaining a leopard elsewhere. The hog deer, which are native to the Indo-Gangetic Plain and considered an endangered species in India due to habitat destruction, are now housed in a 1,000 square meter area near the existing deer enclosure.

The addition of the peahens also completes the presence of peacocks in the zoo, a significant development for the institution. In 2011, Bilaspur Zoo received a tigress from Maharajbagh in exchange for a pair of blackbucks and jackals. The management of Maharajbagh Zoo is now waiting for the approval of their proposal to obtain a female jackal to join the male jackal currently housed at the zoo.

In conclusion, the recent animal exchange between Maharajbagh Zoo and Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden in Bilaspur has added to the biodiversity of the former and helps to promote the conservation of endangered species. The CZA's approval of the proposal in a timely manner demonstrates their commitment to preserving wildlife and ensuring the well-being of animals in zoos across the country.