Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
National Zoological Park orders Enquiry to ascertain the Cause of Sudden Demise of African Elephant ‘Shankar’ at Delhi Zoo
No Sickness or Abnormal Behaviour reported till 16th September 2025
Posted On:
18 SEP 2025 4:56PM by PIB Delhi
The National Zoological Park (NZP), New Delhi has informed about the sudden passing away of the 29-year-old male African elephant, Shankar, on the night of 17th September 2025, at 8:00 PM.
To ascertain the cause of death, an inquiry has been ordered. The post-mortem is being conducted by a team of experts from IVRI Bareilly, health advisory committee and representative of the Ministry for further investigation. After the post-mortem and taking required samples, the carcass will be disposed-off following due procedure.
‘Shankar’ had been a valued member of the National Zoological Park family for 27 years, having arrived in November 1998 from Zimbabwe. He was admired by visitors and cherished by the zoo staff for his gentle nature and majestic presence.
On the morning of 17th September, it was observed that ‘Shankar’ was consuming fewer leaves and grasses with slight loose motion but was taking concentrate, fruits, and vegetables normally. The veterinary team of NZP provided treatment, and animal keeping staff maintained close observation.
At approximately 7:25 PM on the same day, Shankar suddenly collapsed in its shed, and despite emergency treatment, succumbed to death. No sickness or abnormal behaviour was reported until 16th September 2025.
‘Shankar’ was a symbol of strength, wisdom and love, and many members of the zoo community were emotionally attached to him. The void left by his loss will be deeply felt by the zoo team, visitors, and the entire conservation community, said Director (NZP), Dr. Sanjeet Kumar. The NZP reaffirms its commitment to support ongoing wildlife welfare and conservation efforts at the National Zoological Park and across the country, he added.
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VM/SK
(Release ID: 2168112)