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Jamnagar, Gujarat — March 4, 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Vantara, the world’s largest animal rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation centre, located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Spanning approximately 3,500 acres, Vantara aims to provide a safe haven for rescued, endangered, and threatened animals from across the globe.
Key Highlights
During the inauguration, PM Modi toured the facility and interacted closely with various animal inhabitants. He fed Asiatic Lion cubs, a White Lion cub, a Clouded Leopard cub, and a Caracal cub—each representing a significant success in the centre’s conservation efforts. The Caracal, a species once widespread in India, is now part of a dedicated breeding program at Vantara to aid its reintroduction into the wild.
The facility also houses the Advanced Multi-Specialty Wildlife Hospital, equipped with MRI, CT scans, ICUs, and a Neonatal ICU. PM Modi observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI scan and visited the operation theatre, where a rescued Leopard was undergoing surgery after a roadside accident.
The Hydrotherapy Pool, designed to help elephants recover from arthritis and mobility issues, is among the standout features of the centre. Additionally, Vantara's world-class Elephant Hospital provides comprehensive medical care to rescued elephants.
History and Background
The idea of Vantara was conceived as part of a larger vision to protect wildlife and restore ecological balance. Developed by Reliance Industries Limited under the Greenbelt Project, the initiative began in 2006 with a small-scale animal rescue and rehabilitation effort. Over the years, the project expanded to become a full-fledged conservation centre.
Vantara's afforestation drive has seen over 25 million trees planted across the area, creating a lush, natural habitat for the animals. The centre is home to more than 1.5 lakh rescued animals, including some of the world's rarest species like the two-headed snake, two-headed turtle, Tapirs, Seals, Giant Otters, and Bongo antelopes.
Global Conservation Efforts
With a team of international veterinarians and wildlife experts, Vantara has set new standards in animal rescue and rehabilitation. The facility collaborates with global wildlife organisations and participates in various species reintroduction programs.
Inaugurated Vantara, a unique wildlife conservation, rescue and rehabilitation initiative, which provides a safe haven for animals while promoting ecological sustainability and wildlife welfare. I commend Anant Ambani and his entire team for this very compassionate effort. pic.twitter.com/NeNjy5LnkO
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 4, 2025
PM Modi highlighted Vantara’s role in reinforcing India’s commitment to environmental sustainability, calling it a "monumental step towards wildlife conservation and ecological balance." To commemorate the occasion, the Prime Minister released rescued parrots back into the wild—a symbolic gesture of Vantara’s mission to restore nature’s balance.
What’s Next?
Vantara plans to expand its rescue operations and strengthen its conservation programs, with a focus on breeding endangered species and developing community-based conservation models. The centre will also host educational programs to raise awareness about wildlife conservation.
Vantara marks a significant milestone in India’s conservation efforts. By combining advanced veterinary care, global collaboration, and sustainable practices, the centre sets a benchmark for wildlife rescue and rehabilitation worldwide.