Nehru Zoological Park names cub after martyred soldier 'Santosh'

Hyderabad: Staffers at the city's Nehru Zoological Park have named a Royal Bengal tiger's cub 'Santosh', in honour of Late Col. Santosh Babu.

Col Santosh Babu, a resident of Telangana's Suryapet district, was martyred in the line of duty at India's eastern Ladakh border in the month of June. The soldier lost his life along with 19 others in a clash with troops of the Chinese army.

The decision comes on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day celebrations at the zoo.

Asha, a female Royal Bengal tigress at the zoo, gave birth to three cubs during the pandemic-induced lockdown. Out of these three male cubs, one has been named 'Santosh', and the other two, 'Surya' and 'Sankalp'.

Deputy Collector at the zoo, A Nagmani said, "Nehru Zoological Park is known for its rich natural habitat. The quality of the zoo has been kept at par because of our officials' untiring efforts. We wanted to honour the day, which has its genesis in a long period of struggle and unhindered sacrifice."

Appreciation certificates and cash rewards were also granted to the most hard-working employees of the year. Staffers also paid tribute to Late Col Santosh Babu, who laid down his life during the Indo-China border dispute.

The National Flag was hoisted by Curator N.Kshitija, IFS, at its administrative building, in the presence of A.Nagamani, Deputy Curator.