Reliance launches Vantara programme for global wildlife conservation

Jamnagar: Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation introduced the Vantara (Star of the Forest) programme here on Monday, an initiative focusing on the rescue, treatment, care and rehabilitation of injured, abused and threatened animals in India and worldwide.

The programme, led by Anant Ambani, director of RIL and Reliance Foundation, would aim to contribute significantly to global conservation efforts.

Spread over 3,000 acre within the Green Belt of Reliance’s Jamnagar Refinery Complex in Gujarat, Vantara would transform the space into a jungle-like environment, providing a natural habitat for rescued species. Ambani emphasised the importance of the programme’s focus on best-in-class animal conservation practices.

Vantara has collaborated with international organisations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), aiming to integrate advanced research and global partnerships into its initiatives. The programme has already rescued over 200 elephants and various other animals, including rhinos, leopards and crocodiles.

Speaking about Vantara, Ambani said: “We are focused on protecting critically endangered species native to India, restoring vital habitats and addressing urgent threats. We aim to showcase how a forward-thinking institution can contribute to global biodiversity conservation initiatives.”

Elephant centre

Vantara’s elephant centre spans a large part of the 3,000-acre premises, offering state-of-the-art shelters, hydrotherapy pools and a 25,000 square feet elephant hospital, one of the largest globally. The hospital employs advanced technology for surgeries and treatments, including cataract and endoscopic guided surgeries.

For other wild animals, Vantara has established a rescue and rehabilitation centre on 650 acre within the premises, housing animals from distressed environments globally. The centre features large enclosures, shelters and a one lakh square foot hospital and medical research centre with advanced technology.

Vantara has also collaborated with international organisations and institutions, including the Venezuelan National Foundation of Zoos, the Smithsonian and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The programme would also focus on education and awareness, planning to collaborate with educational institutions to increase awareness of conservation issues, particularly among the youth.

All rescued animals are brought to Vantara with the necessary approvals from wildlife authorities, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks in India and internationally. The programme has already given a new lease of life to over 200 elephants, 300 large felines, 300 herbivores and 1200 reptiles.