Anna Konidela Adopts Elephant and Tiger at Visakhapatnam Zoo on Her Birthday

Marking her birthday with a gesture towards wildlife conservation, Anna Konidela, wife of Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, has adopted an Asian elephant and a Royal Bengal tiger for one year at the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) in Visakhapatnam.

The initiative reflects her support for animal welfare and wildlife conservation, with a total contribution of ₹6.3 lakh towards the care of the two animals.

According to a statement issued by IGZP Curator G. Mangamma, Anna Konidela contributed ₹4.3 lakh for the adoption of the Asian elephant, India's national heritage animal, and ₹2 lakh for the Royal Bengal tiger, the country's national animal.

The funds will be utilised over the next year to meet the animals' daily needs, including food, nutrition, veterinary care, habitat maintenance and other welfare measures. Zoo authorities said such contributions play an important role in supporting the long-term care of captive wildlife while also encouraging greater public participation in conservation efforts.

Welcoming Anna Konidela into the zoo's "Animal Adoption Family," the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park appreciated her meaningful contribution towards animal welfare, zoo management and wildlife protection. Officials noted that public participation through the adoption programme strengthens conservation initiatives while helping improve the quality of care provided to animals housed at the facility.

The zoo also encouraged more people to participate in its Animal Adoption Programme, under which individuals, families, educational institutions, non-governmental organisations and corporate organisations can sponsor the care of animals for a specified period.

Officials further stated that donations made under the programme are eligible for income tax benefits under Section 80G(5) of the Income Tax Act, 1961, subject to the provisions applicable under the old tax regime.

The adoption programme has been promoted as a way for citizens to directly contribute to wildlife conservation while supporting the upkeep and well-being of animals at the Visakhapatnam zoo.