Vantara
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Vantara, an advanced animal rescue, conservation, and rehabilitation center in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The event saw the presence of Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani, his wife Nita Ambani, their son Anant Ambani, and daughter-in-law Radhika Merchant.
During his visit, PM Modi explored the facilities, interacted with rescued animals, and inspected the wildlife hospital at the center. Equipped with modern veterinary technology, including MRI, CT scans, and ICUs, the hospital ensures top-tier care for injured and rehabilitated animals.
PM Modi’s Heartwarming Interaction with Animals
A video shared on the Prime Minister’s official YouTube channel showcased his affectionate interactions with various species. He was seen feeding Asiatic Lion cubs, a White Lion cub, and a Clouded Leopard cub, an endangered species. Additionally, he spent time with a Caracal cub, a species that was once widespread in India but is now rare.
The White Lion cub that PM Modi fed was born at Vantara after its mother was rescued. The center also runs a captive breeding program for Caracals, aiming to reintroduce them into the wild.
Exploring Advanced Veterinary Care
PM Modi observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI and visited the Operation Theatre, where a Leopard was undergoing life-saving surgery after a rescue from a highway accident. The center’s rehabilitation efforts include providing natural habitat-like enclosures for rescued animals, ensuring their well-being.
For more details about Vantara and its conservation programs, visit the official Vantara Website.
Key Conservation Initiatives
Vantara is actively involved in conservation efforts for several endangered species, including the Asiatic Lion, Snow Leopard, and One-Horned Rhinoceros. The Prime Minister also closely observed a Golden Tiger, four rescued Snow Tigers, a White Lion, and a Snow Leopard.
PM Modi’s Close Encounters with Wildlife
During his visit, PM Modi had face-to-face interactions with Chimpanzees, Orangutans, and an Okapi. He also observed a Hippopotamus underwater, walked among Zebras, and fed a Giraffe and an orphaned Rhino calf. His tour included sightings of a large Python, a rare two-headed snake, a two-headed Turtle, a Tapir, Leopard cubs rescued from an agricultural field, Giant Otters, Bongo Antelopes, and Seals.
PM Modi also witnessed the world’s largest elephant hospital in action, which provides hydrotherapy pools for elephants suffering from arthritis and foot ailments. Additionally, he released parrots that had been rescued and rehabilitated at the center.
A Commitment to Wildlife Conservation
Before inaugurating Vantara, PM Modi also undertook a lion safari at Gir National Park on World Wildlife Day. He reiterated India’s commitment to wildlife preservation, stating, “On World Wildlife Day, let’s pledge to protect and preserve our planet’s incredible biodiversity. Every species plays a vital role—let’s safeguard their future for generations to come!”
The inauguration of Vantara highlights India’s growing efforts in wildlife conservation, providing hope for endangered species and reinforcing the country’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage.