Vantara Wildlife Rescue Centre in Jamnagar sets new standards in conservation

Khaleej Times

27-03-2025

Vantara, a leading wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre, is redefining conservation efforts with its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to ecological restoration. Spanning over 3,000 acres, the centre is home to more than 2,000 rescued animals across 43 species, including elephants, big cats, birds, and reptiles. Each habitat is meticulously designed to mirror the animals' natural environment, ensuring their physical and psychological well-being.
The facility's 600-acre elephant habitat features an advanced veterinary hospital equipped with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, laser treatment, and even a jacuzzi for arthritis relief - setting new benchmarks in animal welfare. Its 100,000 sq. ft. medical research centre, outfitted with MRI, X-ray, ICU, and CT scan facilities, enables swift diagnoses and tailored treatment for rescued wildlife.
Among its notable achievements is its role in the reintroduction of the Spix's macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii), a species once declared extinct in the wild. The centre collaborated with the Association for the Conservation of Threatened Parrots (ACTP) to facilitate the bird's return to its natural habitat in Brazil. Additionally, this centre has played a pivotal role in rescuing elephants from Arunachal Pradesh, where they faced severe threats due to deforestation and conflict. Vantara has also contributed significantly to research supporting the development of vaccines and medical treatments tailored to endangered species.
This initiative includes the involvement of Vantara, an animal rehabilitation and conservation centre established by the Reliance Group under Anant Ambani who was recently honoured with the Prani Mitra Awards by Animal Welfare Board of India. Vantara's efforts have been instrumental in advancing wildlife welfare standards through innovative medical care, habitat creation, and ecological restoration. The centre has also developed specialized enrichment programmes for animals to stimulate their natural instincts and improve their overall well-being. Vantara's educational initiatives further raise awareness about the importance of wildlife protection, engaging schools, communities, and environmentalists to promote conservation practices.
"What started as a passion for me at a very young age has become a mission now with Vantara and our brilliant and committed team. We are focused on protecting critically endangered species native to India," said Anant Ambani in an interview. "We also want to restore vital habitats, address urgent threats to species and establish Vantara as a leading-edge conservation programme. We are delighted that our efforts have been recognised in India and internationally," he added.
The ongoing conservation efforts align with broader environmental goals, including initiatives focused on sustainable rehabilitation and wildlife protection. As conservation challenges mount, Vantara stands as a beacon of hope for wildlife protection, sustainable rehabilitation, and ecological restoration, demonstrating the power of dedicated efforts in shaping a better future for endangered species.