Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan rescued a peacock chick at his official residence in New Delhi on Sunday, June 28, 2026. The chick was later handed over to the Wildlife SOS rescue team after efforts to locate its mother proved unsuccessful.
Rescue and Naming
Sharing the incident on X, Chouhan stated that the chick was discovered at his residence. Those present searched the surrounding area for its mother but could not find her. Citing concerns about the chick's safety in the open premises, the decision was made to hand it over to the Wildlife SOS team. The minister affectionately named the bird “Nanha Kartik” (Young Kartik) before the handover.
Legal Protection and Rehabilitation
The Indian peafowl, India's national bird, is a protected species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Rescued birds are typically handed over to authorised wildlife rescue agencies for care and rehabilitation. Wildlife SOS is a recognised organisation that works to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife in distress.
Personal Touch
Chouhan named the chick after his son Kartikeya, adding a personal touch to the rescue. According to the minister, the chick was in good condition when handed over, and the rescue team will ensure its proper care.
