No exotic birds in Chinnara Habba

BANGALORE: Though the city is set for Chinnara Habba, an exclusive event for children, they may not get a glimpse of the exotic breeds of birds in the Habba, this year. The State Forest Department upon a direction from Director General (Forests), Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and former union minister Maneka Gandhi, has prohibited the exhibition of exotic breeds of birds in Chinnara Habba.Speaking to Express, an forest official said, “Exotic breeds of birds like Ostriches and Emus are not allowed for display in public events and this is a violation of the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).  Exhibitors will have to take permission from the Forest Department.” He further said, “Last year, the Department had stopped the display of such exotic varieties of birds during the Chinnara Habba, but this year, organisers have still not taken our permission.”The Habba, a joint venture of two city-based NGOs, is happening at the Palace Grounds from November 24-27. The Habba would comprise more than 100 stalls.