PM Modi inaugurates Vantara in Gujarat: A landmark in wildlife conservation

With habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change pushing countless species toward extinction, conservation efforts have never been more critical. Sanctuaries and rescue centres play a vital role in safeguarding endangered wildlife, ensuring they receive the care and protection they need. In a step towards this mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and visited Vantara, the world’s largest animal rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation centre, in Gujarat. Spread across 3,500 acres, Vantara is home to over 1.5 lakh rescued, endangered, and threatened animals, offering them a home away from home and a second chance at life.
During his visit, PM Modi explored various sections of the facility, witnessing its conservation initiatives firsthand. He played with Asiatic Lion cubs, a White Lion cub, a Clouded Leopard cub, and a Caracal cub, all rehabilitated at the centre. The White Lion cub he was seen feeding, was born at Vantara after its mother was rescued, while the Caracal, once abundant in India, is now part of a breeding program designed to ensure their survival and reintroduction into the wild.

The centre is equipped with an Advanced Multi-Specialty Wildlife Hospital, featuring MRI, CT scans, ICUs, and a specialised Neonatal ICU. PM Modi visited the MRI room, where he observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing a scan, and the operation theatre, where a Leopard was undergoing life-saving surgery after being rescued from a roadside accident. The facility also includes a Hydrotherapy Pool, aiding elephants suffering from arthritis and mobility issues, further demonstrating the centre’s commitment to holistic wildlife care.

His visit was marked by several close interactions with animals. He came face-to-face with a majestic Golden Tiger, a group of rescued Snow Tigers from a circus, a White Lion, and a Snow Leopard. He also patted an Okapi, walked among Zebras, played with Orangutans rescued from overcrowded facilities, and interacted with Chimpanzees in an open environment. Additionally, he fed a Giraffe and an orphaned One-Horned Rhino calf whose mother had died at the facility.

Vantara also houses some of the world’s rarest species, including a two-headed snake, a two-headed turtle, Tapirs, Seals, Giant Otters, and Bongo antelopes. The Prime Minister observed elephants relaxing in their jacuzzi and witnessed the operations of the world’s largest elephant hospital, which provides advanced care for these gentle giants. To mark the occasion, he released rescued parrots back symbolising the centre's mission of rehabilitation and freedom.

A vision for conservation and sustainability
With a global team of veterinarians and caregivers, Vantara is at the forefront of saving endangered species while actively working on conservation programs. The centre is also committed to environmental sustainability, with over 25 million trees planted to restore natural habitats. As the world’s largest wildlife rescue and conservation project, Vantara stands as a testament to India’s dedication to protecting its rich biodiversity and ensuring a future for the world’s most vulnerable species.