The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) was established in 1916 as a premier research institution, undertaking survey, exploration and research leading to the advancement of our knowledge on the exceptionally rich faunal diversity of the country.
Over the successive plan periods functions of ZSI have also expanded gradually encompassing areas like –
The Environmental Impact Assessment with regard to fauna;
Survey of conservation areas;
Status survey of endangered species; computerization of digitization of data on faunal resources;
Environmental Information System (ENVIS) on fauna diversity;
Identification and advisory services;
National Designated Repository of type and voucher specimens;
Supporting enforcement of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972;
Establishment of marine aquaria and Museum for awareness on conservation etc., and
Acts as a custodian of the National Zoological Collections.
Its headquarters is located at Kolkata and 16 regional centres are located at different parts of the country.
