Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vantara wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, marking a significant step in India’s conservation efforts. The facility, spearheaded by Anant Ambani, aims to provide a safe haven for thousands of rescued and endangered animals while promoting ecological sustainability. The Prime Minister, visibly moved by the initiative, commended Ambani and his team for their dedication to animal welfare.
During his visit, Modi engaged closely with the rescued wildlife, feeding and playing with animals such as Asiatic lion cubs, white lions, and even high-fiving a lion. He also visited the state-of-the-art wildlife hospital at Vantara, which offers advanced medical care with MRI, CT scans, and specialized units for cardiology, nephrology, and internal medicine. At the hospital, he observed an Asiatic lion undergoing an MRI scan and a leopard receiving life-saving surgery after a highway accident.
Vantara is home to over 2,000 species and more than 1.5 lakh animals, many of which have been rescued from dangerous situations. Among them are clouded leopard cubs, caracals bred for conservation, golden tigers, and snow tigers that were once used in circus performances. The center ensures that the animals live in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats, with extensive conservation programs for species like the Asiatic lion, snow leopard, and one-horned rhinoceros.
The Prime Minister also spent time with a variety of animals, including a pat on an okapi, a hug for an orangutan, and a stroll among grazing zebras. He fed an orphaned rhino calf and observed unique creatures such as a two-headed snake and a two-headed turtle. The visit also included a stop at the elephant hospital, the largest of its kind in the world, where he learned about hydrotherapy treatments for elephants suffering from arthritis.
Modi’s visit was not just about admiration but also action, as he personally released rescued parrots back into the wild. He interacted with veterinarians and caregivers, acknowledging their tireless efforts in ensuring the well-being of the animals. The visit highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation and the need for more initiatives like Vantara, where compassion and science come together to protect India’s rich biodiversity.
