PM Modi Inaugurates Vantara, an Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre in Gujarat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated Vantara, an advanced animal rescue, conservation, and rehabilitation center in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district. The event was attended by 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 state-of-the-art facilities, interacted with rehabilitated animals, and observed medical procedures at the center’s wildlife hospital. His visit emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation and India’s efforts to protect endangered species.

Key Highlights of PM Modi’s Visit to Vantara

Inauguration and Presence of Key Figures

• PM Modi inaugurated Vantara in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
• Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Anant Ambani, and Radhika Merchant were present.

Wildlife Hospital Facilities

• PM Modi visited a specialized hospital equipped with MRI, CT scans, and ICUs.
• He observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing MRI and a Leopard undergoing life-saving surgery after a rescue.

Interaction with Rescued Animals

PM Modi played with and fed rare species such as,

• Asiatic Lion cubs
• White Lion cub (born at Vantara after the mother was rescued)
• Clouded Leopard cub (endangered species)
• Caracal cubs (bred under conservation efforts for release into the wild)
• He also met a Golden Tiger and four Snow Tigers, rescued from a circus.

Conservation Initiatives

Key species protected at Vantara include,

• Asiatic Lions
• Snow Leopards
• One-Horned Rhinoceroses
• The rescued animals are kept in environments mimicking their natural habitats.

Additional Animal Encounters

PM Modi interacted with diverse species, including,

• Okapi
• Chimpanzees (rescued from captivity)
• Orangutans (earlier kept in overcrowded conditions)
• Hippopotamus, Crocodiles, and Zebras
• Giant Otter, Bongo (antelope), Tapir, Seals, and Leopard cubs
• A Python, a two-headed snake, and a two-headed turtle
• He also visited hydrotherapy pools that help elephants recover from arthritis and foot problems.
• Released rescued parrots back into the wild.

PM Modi’s Commitment to Wildlife Conservation

• On World Wildlife Day, PM Modi took a lion safari in Gir National Park.
• He urged people to protect and preserve biodiversity for future generations.
• Acknowledged India’s efforts in wildlife conservation.