Vantara, the wildlife rescue center nestled in Gujarat's Jamnagar, is preparing to welcome 20 elephants rescued from the logging industry in Arunachal Pradesh. This offers these majestic creatures a chance and make them free from exploitation and hardship.
The elephants, comprising 10 males, 8 females, one sub-adult, and one calf, will embark on a journey from Arunachal Pradesh to their new home in Jamnagar, traveling in specially designed elephant ambulances. This relocation, approved by a Supreme Court committee, has been carried out with the full consent of the elephants' current owners.
At Vantara, these elephants will find a sanctuary similar to their natural habitat. They will roam freely, unburdened by chains or the demands of labour. This will offer them a chance to heal, both physically and emotionally, from their painful past experiences.
Some past Controversies
The relocation of these elephants was not without controversy. Assam Congress chief Bhupen Borah had accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of sending elephants from Assam to Vantara in an attempt to appease industrialist Mukesh Ambani.
However, the Assam Chief Minister's Office swiftly refuted these allegations, calling them "unwarranted and false." They clarified that no elephants had been transported from Assam and that any news or social media posts suggesting otherwise were completely unfounded.
Vantara: A hope for the Captive Elephants
Vantara as a center stands as a hope for many wildlife animals and now for the captive animals. The center provides a safe environment where animals stay with loving care. The arrival of these 20 elephants marks a significant step in Vantara's mission to provide refuge for animals in need.
Vantara: Where Elephants Can Thrive
Vantara's dedication to elephant welfare extends beyond providing a safe haven. The center focuses on enriching the lives of its residents through various initiatives:
- Chain-Free Living: Elephants at Vantara are not restrained by chains, allowing them to move freely and express their natural behaviors.
- Spacious Enclosures: The center provides ample space for elephants to roam and socialize, mimicking their natural habitat.
- Specialized Care: Vantara has a team of experienced veterinarians and elephant caretakers who provide specialised medical attention and daily care.
- Enrichment Activities: Elephants engage in various enrichment activities, such as foraging for food, and interacting with other elephants, to stimulate their minds and bodies.
Vantara's efforts are transforming the lives of elephants with broader conservation efforts.