To encourage new researchers and long-term projects in Herpetology (the study of reptiles and amphibians), the Madras Crocodile Bank has announced an annual grant of Rs. 25 lakhs as a part of its 35th year celebrations. Celebrations will include special feeding demonstrations for visitors, who can also interact with staff members to learn more about the life cycle and history of the reptile.

Crocodile Bank is the largest reptile bank in India and was started in 1976 by Romulus Whitaker. It has bred over 5,000 crocs and is home to over 2,400 crocodilians of 14 different species. The Bank keeps its crocodiles in its natural habitat. Animal lovers can adopt a croc and sponsor its upkeep for a year.

A special research advisory board has been established to oversee the scheme and to promote research programs at the Crocodile Bank and in its associated research centers, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Environmental Team (ANET) and the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS).