Vantara Triumphs: Supreme Court Panel Grants Clean Chit to Gujarat's Groundbreaking Animal Rescue Centre

In a resounding victory for wildlife conservation and ethical animal care, a high-powered committee appointed by the Supreme Court of India has delivered a unequivocal clean chit to Vantara, the ambitious animal rescue and rehabilitation centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Operated by Reliance Industries and the Reliance Foundation, Vantara had faced allegations of illegal animal transfers and acquisition, but the panel's exhaustive investigation has not only dismissed these claims but also showered praise on the facility's world-class standards.

The allegations, primarily brought by the Chief Public Prosecutor of Assam and several NGOs, suggested that Vantara was involved in the illicit acquisition and transfer of wild animals from various zoos, both within India and internationally, without proper legal sanction.

These accusations cast a shadow over a project touted as a beacon of hope for endangered species and rescued animals.

Responding to these serious claims, the Supreme Court took decisive action, constituting a three-member independent committee to thoroughly scrutinize Vantara's operations. This esteemed panel comprised Justice (retd) Aniruddha Bose, a former Supreme Court judge; Justice (retd) Mahesh Mittal Kumar, a former Chief Justice of the Jammu & Kashmir High Court; and Dr.

Dipankar Ghose, a renowned wildlife expert. Their mandate was clear: investigate every aspect of Vantara's animal acquisition, care, and rehabilitation processes.

The committee embarked on a rigorous investigation, conducting multiple on-site visits to the expansive 3,000-acre facility in Jamnagar.

They meticulously examined records, observed animal care protocols, and interviewed staff. Their findings were conclusive: not a single instance of illegal acquisition or transfer of animals was found. The panel explicitly stated that Vantara adheres to all statutory provisions, rules, and guidelines, including the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009.

Animals transferred to Vantara, including those from zoos, were done so through legitimate exchange programmes approved by the Central Zoo Authority, following all necessary legal procedures.

Beyond merely clearing Vantara of wrongdoing, the committee was effusive in its praise for the centre's exceptional standards.

They highlighted the state-of-the-art veterinary facilities, cutting-edge scientific management practices, and the unparalleled level of care provided to its animal residents. The report lauded Vantara's facilities as comparable, if not superior, to leading international animal care centres, emphasizing its commitment to rehabilitation and ensuring the highest standards of well-being for all animals under its protection.

Vantara, meaning 'Star of the Forest', is indeed an initiative of monumental scale and vision.

Supported by Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation, it aims to be a global leader in animal rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation. The centre currently houses an impressive array of animals, including over 200 elephants, more than 300 big cats such as leopards, tigers, and lions, and over 3,000 reptiles, including crocodiles, snakes, and turtles.

Its mission extends beyond immediate rescue, focusing on research, education, and long-term conservation efforts to protect endangered species and restore ecological balance.

This clean chit from the Supreme Court-appointed panel marks a significant milestone for Vantara. It not only vindicates the centre against unfounded allegations but also solidifies its position as a legitimate, ethical, and world-class contributor to global wildlife conservation.

With this endorsement, Vantara is poised to continue its vital work, offering a safe haven and a second chance at life for countless animals in need, and inspiring similar initiatives worldwide.