Jamnagar (Gujarat) [India]: Vantara, the wildlife preservation project founded by Anant Ambani, is set to provide a sanctuary for 20 rescued elephants from Arunachal Pradesh’s exploitative logging industry. These elephants—comprising 10 males, 8 females, 1 sub-adult, and 1 calf—will now live chain-free in an environment designed to mimic their natural habitat.
The rescue was executed with the full consent of the elephants’ previous owners and approval from the Supreme Court-appointed High Powered Committee and the Tripura High Court. All necessary permissions under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, including No Objection Certificates from the Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh Forest Departments, were obtained.
Stories of Survival
Among the rescued are elephants like:
- Laxmi, a 10-year-old sub-adult with untreated leg wounds and a painful ear injury inflicted during taming.
- Maya, a 2-year-old calf rescued with her mother, Rongmoti, who bears harness-induced injuries from logging work.
- Ramu, a bull elephant restrained painfully during his musth period, and Babulal, another bull who suffered a broken tail in a wild elephant conflict.
These elephants endured physical abuse, psychological trauma, and severe health issues during their years in captivity.
A New Beginning at Vantara
At Vantara, these elephants will receive round-the-clock care from over 200 experts, including veterinarians and paravets. Specially designed elephant ambulances will transport them safely, adhering to strict welfare standards. Advanced medical care, including physiotherapy, will be available, ensuring a dignified and rejuvenating life.
Empowering Communities
The project also aims to uplift local communities. Former elephant owners, mahouts, and their families will receive alternative livelihoods, with intensive training in humane elephant management techniques. Chow Thamasala Mein, one of the owners, praised the initiative, highlighting its dual focus on animal welfare and securing steady incomes for families.
A Step Toward Conservation
Arunachal Pradesh, home to approximately 200 captive elephants, faces challenges in managing their welfare. Divisional Forest Officer Tabang Jamoh emphasized the importance of initiatives like Vantara in balancing conservation, community development, and forest protection.
Veterinarian Dr. Sorang Tadap applauded Vantara for setting new benchmarks in elephant care, addressing gaps in existing facilities, and ensuring a humane future for rescued animals.
A Life of Dignity
After years of suffering under harsh conditions in the logging industry, these elephants will now roam freely, engage in natural behaviors, and live with dignity. The project underscores the need for compassionate conservation and highlights the transformative impact of collaborative efforts between governments, organizations, and local communities.
Vantara not only offers a new lease on life for these elephants but also sets a precedent for wildlife preservation and ethical treatment of animals in India.