| Event | Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park to become India's first IGBC-certified zoo. |
| Announcement Date | 30th October 2024. |
| Announced By | Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. |
| Location | Bankhandi area, Dehra assembly constituency, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. |
| IGBC Certification | First zoo in India to receive Indian Green Building Council certification for sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure. |
| Project Phases | - First Phase: 25 hectares, budget ₹230 crore.- Total Cost: ₹619 crore. |
| Completion Date | Anticipated by Q3 2025. |
| Facilities | - 34 animal enclosures approved by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA).- 73 species, including Asiatic lion, Hog deer, Crocodile, Monitor lizard, Gharial, and various birds.- Nocturnal house for rare feline species.- Wetland aviary for indigenous bird species. |
| Economic Impact | Expected to boost tourism, create employment, and strengthen the local economy. |
| Eco-Tourism Focus | Reinforces Kangra as the "Tourism Capital" of Himachal Pradesh; aligns with sustainable development goals. |
| IGBC Details | - Part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), founded in 2001.- Premier green building certification body in India.- Headquartered in Hyderabad. |
| National Parks in Himachal Pradesh | Great Himalayan, Inderkilla, Khirganga, Pin Valley, Simbalbara (Col. Sher Jung). |
| Wildlife Sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh | Chandratal, Dhauladhar, Kais, Kalatop-Khajjiar, Kugti, Lippa Asrang, Pong Dam Lake, Rakchham Chitkul, Renuka, Rupi Bhaba, Churdhar, Kibber, Manali, Sech Tuan Nala, Shikari Devi. |
| Ramsar Sites in Himachal Pradesh | Chandra Taal, Pong Dam Lake, Renuka Lake. |
