It is true that Vantara works selflessly and tirelessly for wildlife conservation

(Utkarsh Patel)

Located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Vantara is a remarkable and inspiring service project that stands as a living symbol of the Ambani family's selfless efforts and vision. The name "Vantara," derived from the combination of "Van" (forest) and "Tara" (star), brings a sparkle and hope to nature's wilderness. Established by the Reliance Foundation, this center was born out of Anant Ambani’s firm resolve and inspiration. Spread over 3,000 acres, this vast area is situated within the green belt of the Reliance Jamnagar Refinery Complex and serves as a world-class center for the protection, rehabilitation, and care of wildlife. This project not only saves Indian wildlife but also works globally for the protection and conservation of animals. Vantara is not merely a rescue center but a symbol of humanity’s connection with nature.

The inception of Vantara stems from Anant Ambani’s childhood experience. While traveling from Jaipur to Ranthambore, he saw an injured elephant. Inspired by this experience, he embraced Swami Vivekananda’s principle of "Jeev Seva" (service to living beings) and gave birth to Vantara. The guidance and support of Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani have been crucial to this service project of the Ambani family. They have made significant investments to equip this center with modern facilities. The center houses over 2,000 animals, including elephants, rhinos, snakes, tigers, and various birds, all of whom receive world-class facilities and care. By 2025, Vantara has cared for over 150,000 animals. Many of these animals have been rescued from foreign countries, reflecting Vantara’s global vision.

Vantara’s features and facilities are extraordinary. The Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC), spread over 650 acres, has been developed with specialized facilities for elephants, including a dedicated hospital, restraining facility, hydrotherapy pool, elephant jacuzzi, and natural setups. These facilities are designed to treat conditions like arthritis, providing animals with humane and scientific care. The center includes cutting-edge medical care, research centers, academic institutions, and veterinary hospitals, which are affiliated with organizations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and Central Zoo Authority (CZA). Vantara works to address issues like habitat loss, human-animal conflict, poaching, and trade. It strictly adheres to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, CITES Convention, and Zoo Rules. Through global rescue missions, it welcomes exotic animals, such as injured or trafficked elephants and other species from countries in Africa and Asia.

The Ambani family’s efforts are selfless. Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, and Anant Ambani have invested significantly in the annual budget for experts, veterinary facilities, and environmental conservation. Anant Ambani has said, “Vantara is not just a center but a symbol of harmony with nature and service to living beings.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated it in 2025, granting it national recognition. This project positions India as a leader in global wildlife conservation, and through its efforts, thousands of animals have received a new lease on life. Vantara’s success demonstrates how individual and corporate efforts can transform the world.

Recently, the country’s Supreme Court delivered a significant verdict in favor of Vantara regarding allegations against it, strengthening the project’s transparency and legal compliance. On September 15, 2025, a bench comprising Justices Pankaj Mithal and P.B. Varale took note of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) report and stated that Vantara had not violated any laws. The SIT, led by former Chief Justice J. Chelameswar, was formed on August 25, 2025, to investigate Vantara’s operations. Allegations included unauthorized animal acquisition, mistreatment in captivity, financial irregularities, and money laundering, raised by the media and NGOs.

However, after on-site visits in Jamnagar, discussions with regulatory authorities, and examination of 13 volumes of records, the SIT clearly stated that Vantara fully complies with the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, CZA guidelines, Customs Act, and CITES Convention. The court noted that the animal care standards meet CZA and global benchmarks, and the mortality rate aligns with international averages. There was also no fault found in the transfer of temple elephants. This verdict gives Vantara a clean chit and provides it with legal recognition.

Some allegations were made against Vantara regarding its area, animal acquisition, and operations. Attempts to tarnish this noble service by misusing these allegations are condemnable. Instead of criticizing projects like Vantara, we should applaud and honor their contributions. Rather than encouraging a destructive mindset that throws obstacles in the way of such noble endeavors, we should value wildlife, nature, and service. Efforts like Vantara help maintain environmental balance, which is a blessing for future generations.

In particular, we wholeheartedly thank the Ambani family, especially Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, and Anant Ambani. Their selfless efforts and vision have given rise to a remarkable service center like Vantara, which grants new life to thousands of creatures. Let us take pride in their contribution and support its advancement. Vantara delivers a message of service: through service and conservation, the world can be improved.