India’s commitment to wildlife conservation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Vantara, a state-of-the-art wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation center located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. This initiative, established by Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and Reliance Foundation, spans 3,500 acres and serves as a sanctuary for over 1.5 lakh rescued, endangered, and threatened animals from around the globe.
A Sanctuary for Diverse Species
Vantara is home to more than 2,000 species, offering a safe haven for animals in need. The center’s expansive grounds are meticulously designed to emulate natural habitats, facilitating the rehabilitation and well-being of its inhabitants. Notably, a 3,500-acre area within the facility is dedicated to cheetah conservation, positioning it as the world’s largest cheetah conservation project.
Prime Minister’s Heartwarming Interactions
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi engaged in numerous endearing interactions with the resident animals, reflecting his deep-seated commitment to wildlife welfare. He was seen feeding lion cubs, including a white lion cub born at the center after its mother’s rescue, as well as an okapi, giraffes, fish, elephants, and other species. These moments, captured in a video shared by the facility, showcased the Prime Minister’s genuine affection and concern for the animal kingdom. indianexpress.com
Advanced Veterinary Facilities
Vantara boasts a cutting-edge wildlife hospital equipped with MRI, CT scan, ICU, and neonatal ICU services. The hospital offers specialized care in areas such as wildlife anesthesia, cardiology, nephrology, endoscopy, dentistry, and internal medicine. During his tour, Prime Minister Modi observed an Asiatic lion undergoing an MRI scan and witnessed a life-saving surgery being performed on a leopard injured in a vehicular accident.
Conservation Initiatives and Rare Species
The center is actively involved in conservation projects targeting species like the Asiatic lion, snow leopard, and one-horned rhinoceros. Prime Minister Modi had the opportunity to observe rare species, including a golden tiger and snow tigers rescued from a circus environment. He also interacted with chimpanzees rescued from the pet trade, an orangutan previously housed in overcrowded conditions, and various other animals such as hippopotamuses, crocodiles, zebras, and giraffes. Additionally, he fed an orphaned one-horned rhino calf, whose mother had passed away at the facility.
Innovative Animal Care Practices
Vantara incorporates innovative care practices, including hydrotherapy pools designed to aid elephants suffering from arthritis and mobility issues. These therapeutic facilities enhance the quality of life for the resident elephants, addressing common health challenges faced by the species. The Prime Minister observed elephants receiving such treatments, highlighting the center’s commitment to advanced animal welfare practices. ddnews.gov.in
Recognition and Awards
The Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), an organization under Vantara dedicated to the rescue, treatment, and care of elephants, was recently honored with the prestigious ‘Prani Mitra’ National Award. This accolade, India’s highest honor in animal welfare under the ‘Corporate’ category, recognizes exceptional contributions to animal welfare and underscores Vantara’s dedication to the cause.
A Testament to India’s Conservation Ethos
The inauguration of Vantara stands as a testament to India’s enduring ethos of coexisting harmoniously with nature. It reflects a collective commitment to preserving biodiversity and fostering ecological sustainability. Prime Minister Modi’s involvement in the inauguration and his interactions with the animals highlight the importance of compassionate conservation efforts in the country’s developmental agenda. pmindia.gov.in
In conclusion, Vantara represents a monumental stride in wildlife conservation, offering a sanctuary for endangered species and setting new benchmarks in animal rehabilitation and care. The center not only provides refuge to countless animals but also serves as a beacon of hope and a model for future conservation initiatives worldwide.
