Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated and toured the expansive Vantara Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Conservation Centre in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district. Spread over 3,000 acres within the Reliance Jamnagar Refinery Complex, Vantara is home to over 2,000 species and has rescued more than 1.5 lakh animals, including endangered and threatened species.
During his visit, PM Modi explored the centre’s advanced facilities, including a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital equipped with MRI, CT scans, ICUs, and specialised departments like cardiology, endoscopy, and dentistry. He witnessed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI and observed a life-saving surgery on a Leopard injured in a road accident. The hospital also features hydrotherapy pools and jacuzzis for elephants suffering from arthritis and mobility issues.
The Prime Minister closely interacted with various rehabilitated animals. He fed and played with rare species such as Asiatic Lion cubs, White Lion cubs, Clouded Leopard cubs, and Caracal cubs. Notably, the White Lion cub he fed was born at the centre after its mother was rescued. The Caracal breeding programme here aims to reintroduce this once-abundant species into the wild.
PM Modi also encountered several exotic animals, including Snow Tigers rescued from a circus, Orangutans previously kept in overcrowded facilities, and Chimpanzees rescued from private ownership. He walked among Zebras, fed a Rhino calf orphaned at the facility, and observed elephants enjoying their therapeutic jacuzzis. Other unique species he saw included a two-headed snake, a Python, Giant Otters, Seals, and Tapirs.
Vantara’s enclosures are designed to replicate natural habitats for its residents. Conservation efforts at the centre focus on species such as Asiatic Lions, Snow Leopards, and One-Horned Rhinoceroses. PM Modi also released rescued parrots back into the wild and interacted with the dedicated team of doctors and staff managing the facility.
This visit highlights India’s commitment to wildlife conservation through cutting-edge rehabilitation programmes and sustainable practices.
