PM Narendra Modi Visits Vantara, Plays With Rescued Animals At Gujarat’s Wildlife Shelter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his three-day visit to Gujarat, inaugurated Anant Ambani’s Vantara, an advanced animal rescue, conservation, and rehabilitation center, on Tuesday.

A Sanctuary for Rescued Wildlife

Spread over 3,000 acres within the Reliance Jamnagar refinery complex, Vantara is home to over 1.5 lakh rescued animals from more than 2,000 species. The facility provides a safe habitat for endangered and threatened animals, offering specialized care and rehabilitation.

PM Modi’s Interaction with Wildlife

During his visit, PM Modi was seen closely interacting with various animals at the center. He played with and fed orangutans, Asiatic Lion cubs, a White Lion cub, and a rare Clouded Leopard cub. He also engaged with other rescued species, including chimpanzees, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, and a one-horned rhino calf that was orphaned after its mother’s death.

The Prime Minister also visited the wildlife hospital at Vantara, which is equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities, including MRI, CT scans, ICUs, and multiple specialized departments such as Wildlife Anesthesia, Cardiology, Nephrology, and Endoscopy.

Witnessing Veterinary Care in Action

At the hospital, PM Modi observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI scan. He also visited the operation theater, where a leopard was receiving life-saving surgery after being hit by a vehicle on a highway. The facility ensures that all rescued animals receive proper medical attention in an environment that closely mirrors their natural habitat.

Major Conservation Efforts

Vantara focuses on the conservation of several endangered species, including the Asiatic Lion, Snow Leopard, and One-Horned Rhinoceros. The rescued animals live in habitats designed to replicate their natural surroundings, ensuring their well-being and rehabilitation.

PM Modi was also seen patting an Okapi, coming face-to-face with chimpanzees rescued from pet captivity, and hugging an Orangutan that had previously been kept in an overcrowded facility. Additionally, he observed a two-headed snake and turtle, a giant otter, a Tapir, and leopard cubs that were found abandoned in agricultural fields.

Unique Elephant Care Facilities

The Prime Minister also explored Vantara’s specialized elephant hospital—the largest in the world—where he witnessed elephants enjoying a jacuzzi. These hydrotherapy pools are designed to aid elephants suffering from arthritis and foot problems, improving their mobility.

PM Modi’s visit highlighted Vantara’s commitment to wildlife conservation, rescue, and rehabilitation, making it a landmark facility for animal welfare in India.