Vantara strives to establish top-tier standards in animal conservation and care, encompassing cutting-edge healthcare facilities, advanced hospitals, as well as research and academic centers. On Monday, 26th February 2024, Reliance Industries and Reliance Foundation jointly announced the launch of the ‘Vantara’ (Star of the Forest) program.
Anant Ambani Introduces ‘Vantara’: Reliance’s Groundbreaking Animal Welfare Venture; Deets inside
This initiative will prioritize the rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured, abused, and endangered animals, extending its efforts both within India and internationally. Spearheaded by Anant Ambani, a Director on the boards of RIL and Reliance Foundation, the initiative of the venture is set to make a significant impact in the realm of animal welfare.
Ambani, as quoted by news agency ANI, expressed, “What began as a childhood passion has evolved into a dedicated mission with Vantara and our exceptional team. Our primary goal is to safeguard critically endangered species indigenous to India.”
He further stated, “Our aim extends to revitalizing crucial habitats, mitigating immediate dangers to species, and positioning Vantara as a pioneering conservation program. We are pleased that our endeavors have garnered recognition both within India and on the global stage.”
Ambani disclosed that leading zoological and medical experts from India and around the globe have aligned with the Vantara initiative. He unveiled that the program is benefiting from active partnerships and counsel from governmental entities, as well as research and educational institutions.
He highlighted that Vantara’s objective is to collaborate with the Zoo Authority of India and other pertinent governmental bodies. This partnership aims to enhance the training, capacity building, and animal care infrastructure across all of India’s 150-plus zoos.
Ambani expressed his aspiration, stating, “We envision Vantara becoming a beacon of hope on a global scale, demonstrating how a progressive institution can contribute to global biodiversity conservation efforts.”
As part of the Vantara project, a 3000-acre area within Reliance’s Jamnagar Refinery Complex in Gujarat has been transformed into a jungle-like environment. This environment closely resembles the natural, lush habitat, providing rescued species with an enriching space to thrive.
All About the Vantara Program
Vantara aims to establish top-tier standards in animal conservation and care, encompassing state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, hospitals, research, and academic centers. According to ANI, this initiative entails partnerships with esteemed international universities and organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF).
Over the past few years, the program has successfully rescued over 200 elephants, along with thousands of other animals, reptiles, and birds from perilous situations. Additionally, it has launched initiatives for the rehabilitation of crucial animal species, including rhinos, leopards, and crocodiles.
Vantara has also helped with rescue missions in various countries such as Mexico, Venezuela, and others.
The Vantara program has collaborated with international organizations such as the Venezuelan National Foundation of Zoos and has partnered with esteemed institutions globally like the Smithsonian and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Within India, it engages in partnerships with institutions including the National Zoological Park, Assam State Zoo, Nagaland Zoological Park, and Sardar Patel Zoological Park, among others.
