Jamnagar: Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation have unveiled the Vantara (Star of the Forest) program, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to the rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation of injured, abused, and threatened animals. Spanning over 3000 acres within the Green Belt of Reliance’s Jamnagar Refinery Complex in Gujarat, Vantara aims to be a global leader in conservation efforts.
Under the leadership of Anant Ambani, Director on the boards of RIL and Reliance Foundation, Vantara has transformed a vast area into a jungle-like environment that mirrors the natural habitat for rescued species. Ambani, known for his commitment to sustainability, is also leading Reliance’s efforts to become a Net Carbon Zero company by 2035.
Vantara focuses on implementing best-in-class animal conservation and care practices, including state-of-the-art healthcare, hospitals, research, and academic centers. The program collaborates with leading international organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF).
Over the years, Vantara has rescued more than 200 elephants and thousands of other animals, reptiles, and birds. Notably, it has taken part in rescue missions abroad, demonstrating a commitment to global conservation. All rescue and rehabilitation efforts adhere to strict legal and regulatory frameworks in India and internationally.
Anant Ambani expressed, “Vantara aims to partner with the Zoo Authority of India and other relevant government organizations in improving all the 150-plus zoos in India. We hope Vantara becomes a beacon of hope globally and showcases how a forward-thinking institution can contribute to global biodiversity conservation initiatives.”
Vantara’s Elephant Centre, spread over a large area, includes state-of-the-art shelters, scientifically designed enclosures, hydrotherapy pools, and a large elephant jacuzzi. The center has a 25,000 square feet Elephant hospital, one of the largest globally, equipped with advanced medical facilities.
For other wild animals, Vantara has a Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre spanning over 650 acres, rescuing and housing animals from distressed environments worldwide. The center has a 1 Lakh square foot hospital and medical research center with advanced technology, including ICU, MRI, CT scan, X-ray, ultrasound, and more.
The Vantara program has not only provided a new lease of life to over 200 elephants but also cared for large felines, herbivores, and reptiles. The initiative includes conservation breeding programs for about seven endangered species, aiming to repopulate populations and prevent extinction.
Vantara has gained from collaborations with international organizations like the Venezuelan National Foundation of Zoos, the Smithsonian, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. In India, it collaborates with National Zoological Park, Assam State Zoo, Nagaland Zoological Park, and others.
Focusing on education and awareness, Vantara plans to collaborate with educational institutions for knowledge exchange and create a display area with modern, climate-controlled enclosures. The program also emphasizes greening initiatives, contributing to the greening of the Reliance Refinery areas.
The Vantara initiative reflects Reliance’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices, making a significant impact on global wildlife preservation.
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