A Hub for Rescued and Endangered Animals
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Vantara, a vast wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation centre in Gujarat that houses over 1.5 lakh rescued animals from more than 2,000 species. His tour showcased the centre’s comprehensive approach to wildlife care, cutting-edge medical facilities, and commitment to conservation.
State-of-the-Art Wildlife Hospital
During his visit, PM Modi explored Vantara’s advanced wildlife hospital, equipped with modern medical technologies such as MRI, CT scans, and ICU facilities. The hospital specializes in wildlife anaesthesia, cardiology, nephrology, endoscopy, dentistry, and internal medicine. He observed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI scan and a leopard receiving life-saving surgery after a highway accident.
Heartwarming Interactions with Wildlife
PM Modi interacted with several animals at Vantara, including Asiatic Lion cubs, a rare Clouded Leopard cub, and a White Lion cub born at the facility after its mother’s rescue. He also learned about the Caracal breeding program, a significant conservation effort for this increasingly rare species.
His visit also included interactions with majestic creatures such as Golden Tigers, Snow Leopards, and four Snow Tiger brothers rescued from a circus. He spent time with chimpanzees, a playful Orangutan, and witnessed various animals in their spacious, natural enclosures. Among the unique species he observed were a submerged Hippopotamus, crocodiles, an Okapi, zebras, a giraffe, and an orphaned rhino calf. He also saw rare reptiles, including a large python, a two-headed snake, and a two-headed turtle.
Focus on Animal Welfare and Rehabilitation
PM Modi visited Vantara’s elephant hospital, the world’s largest, where he saw elephants receiving hydrotherapy for arthritis and foot ailments. He also witnessed the release of rescued parrots, emphasizing the centre’s dedication to rehabilitation.
A Commitment to Wildlife Conservation
His visit concluded with an interaction with the doctors, staff, and workers managing Vantara, appreciating their efforts in wildlife conservation. PM Modi’s tour underscored India’s commitment to protecting its rich biodiversity, ensuring ecological balance, and promoting sustainable development.
Vantara stands as a global benchmark in wildlife rescue and conservation, reaffirming India’s role as a leader in environmental protection.