Hyderabad | December 8, 2025: In a major milestone towards setting up a world-class, modern zoo in Telangana, the state government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vantara Zoo, operated by Reliance Foundation and owned by industrialist Mukesh Ambani. The collaboration aims to design and develop a global-standard zoological park in the proposed fourth urban cluster near Hyderabad.
The MoU focuses on bringing international expertise, advanced wildlife care practices and state-of-the-art infrastructure to the new facility. Officials said the technical partnership with Vantara — recognised internationally for excellence in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, conservation and scientific management — will help position the upcoming zoo as a top-tier destination in Asia.
Key Highlights of the MoU
- Technical guidance on wildlife care, rescue and rehabilitation models currently implemented at Vantara.
- Support in designing modern natural-habitat enclosures and visitor facilities.
- Expert assistance for setting up an international-standard night safari, including safety standards and operational framework.
- Advisory support for developing an eco-theme forest park integrated with education and tourism.
- Framework for developing the project under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model to improve efficiency and sustainability.
- Collaboration on global best practices to enhance visitor experience and animal welfare.
Officials Present
The MoU was signed in the presence of:
- Ahmad Nadeem, Principal Secretary (Forests)
- Dr. C. Suvarna, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests
- Sunita Bhagwat, Managing Director, Telangana Forest Development Corporation
- Other senior officials from state departments and Vantara management representatives.
Speaking on the occasion, officials said the agreement will significantly strengthen Telangana’s roadmap to create a modern zoological facility integrating tourism, conservation, education and research.
A Unique Attraction in Asia
The upcoming zoo — planned as part of the large-scale development around Hyderabad’s proposed fourth urban cluster — is expected to emerge as a model facility in India with features such as:
- immersive wildlife experience zones,
- scientific conservation and veterinary care,
- ecological learning centres,
- sustainable tourism architecture.
Authorities added that the proposed zoo would become a major tourism landmark, generating significant employment opportunities and promoting eco-tourism in the region.
Future Prospects
The Telangana government is working on finalising land allocation, design proposals, investor participation structure and environmental approvals. Once operational, the new zoo could set a benchmark for modern zoological facilities and establish Telangana as a leader in wildlife conservation and nature-based tourism.
The MoU marks a strategic step towards transforming the state’s long-term vision of developing international-grade public infrastructure and tourism destinations.