State Bank of Sikkim adopts Himalayan Zoo animals under ‘My Child From Wild’ initiative
Bhutia also shared a message for the younger generation: “Dream big, work hard, believe in yourself and your abilities. Even small actions can create a big difference.”
LOCAL
The State Bank of Sikkim (SBS) has extended generous support to the Himalayan Zoological Park (HZP) under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. Through this initiative, SBS has contributed ₹5 lakh to the ‘My Child From Wild’ campaign, which focuses on the overall management and care of animals housed at the zoo. This amount will now be earmarked annually to support the zoo's operations and adoption program.
The initiative allows individuals, groups, and institutions to adopt animals housed at HZP. Currently, the park is home to 19 different wild animal species, with a total of 85 individual animals eligible for symbolic adoption. These include some of the most iconic and endangered species found in the Eastern Himalayas.
‘My Child From Wild’ is more than just an adoption scheme—it is a public awareness movement. It aims to build a stronger connection between people and wildlife. By encouraging citizens and organizations to take part, the program helps instill a sense of shared responsibility, love, and care for animals. It also encourages younger generations to learn about wildlife and nature conservation.
Speaking about the contribution, the Managing Director of State Bank of Sikkim, Shri Phurba Wangdi Bhutia, expressed his strong support for the cause. With more than 35 years of experience in the banking sector, Shri Bhutia has been with SBS since 2013. In 2020, he was appointed Managing Director with the kind support of the Honourable Chief Minister. Despite various challenges, Shri Bhutia has made steady efforts to modernize SBS by upgrading its core banking systems and introducing digital banking facilities for the people of Sikkim.
He said that while modernizing the bank remains a key mission, it is equally important to give back to society. "As a banker, it motivates me when the bank can play a role in uplifting people and supporting important social and environmental causes," he said.
Bhutia also shared a message for the younger generation: “Dream big, work hard, believe in yourself and your abilities. Even small actions can create a big difference.”
The Himalayan Zoological Park, established in 1997, is spread over 230 hectares and is located at Bulbuley, Gangtok. The park is a key destination for nature lovers and researchers, offering a safe and natural environment for Himalayan species like the red panda, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and more.