May 31: As Jambu Zoo in Jammu stepped into its third year on May 30, 2025, the spotlight was firmly on two charismatic new stars — Kutki and Bhunki, a pair of lion cubs making their public debut. Born on March 5 to lions brought from Gujarat, these cubs symbolize not only successful captive breeding but also the growing stature of the zoo as a hub of conservation and wildlife awareness in the Union Territory.
Their first public appearance during the zoo’s second anniversary was more than a celebratory display — it was a statement of promise. The event attracted hundreds of visitors, young and old, who gathered to witness the adorable cubs exploring their enclosure with playful curiosity. Their healthy growth is a testament to the dedicated care by the zoo’s staff and the well-maintained facilities in the 21-enclosure zoo spread across Jammu’s green belt.
The anniversary celebrations were far from ordinary. A fascinating live snake show educated the crowd on local reptilian biodiversity, while the display of the Brandt’s Hedgehog — recently recorded in India — added a scientific edge to the celebrations. Cultural performances by schoolchildren, NGOs, and local artists included skits, Dogri folk dances, songs, and yoga demonstrations, all echoing the broader message of harmony with nature.
Children added their voices through art in a painting competition centered on wildlife themes, and zoo staff were honored for their exceptional work. Supporters of the zoo’s adoption program also received recognition, highlighting the community’s growing role in preserving local biodiversity.
Jambu Zoo has become a flagship project for Jammu and Kashmir, receiving over five lakh visitors since its public opening in May 2023. Housing lions, tigers, leopards, crocodiles, deer, bears, snakes, and vibrant bird species, it is now one of northern India’s most diverse zoological parks.
With its emphasis on education, breeding, conservation, and community participation, Jambu Zoo is no longer just a recreational space — it’s an evolving institution playing a critical role in wildlife preservation. The birth and debut of Kutki and Bhunki serve as a powerful reminder of what focused care, scientific management, and public involvement can achieve.