Jamnagar: Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Reliance Foundation (RF) on Monday launched the ‘Vantara’ (Star of the Forest) programme, an initiative that will prioritise the rescue, treatment, care, and rehabilitation of injured, abused and endangered animals — both domestically and internationally.
Vantara has been developed under the guidance of Mukesh Ambani’s younger son Anant, who serves as a director on the boards of RIL and RF.
“What started as a passion for me at a very young age has become a mission now with Vantara and our brilliant and committed team. We are focused on protecting critically endangered species native to India,” Anant said.
“We also want to restore vital habitats and address urgent threats to species and establish Vantara as a leading-edge conservation programme. We are delighted that our efforts have been recognised in India and internationally,” he added.
Anant disclosed that leading zoological and medical experts from India and around the globe have joined the initiative. The programme intends to partner with the Zoo Authority of India and various other government entities to improve over 150 zoos across the nation.
An area spanning 3,000 acres within the Green Belt of Reliance’s Jamnagar Refinery complex in Gujarat has been converted into a sanctuary for rescued species as part of the Vantara project.
The programme is receiving substantial support and guidance from governmental bodies, research institutions and educational establishments, informed Anant.
The initiative also aims to establish leading animal conservation and care standards through collaborations with international organisations such as International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF).
Vantara has already rescued more than 200 elephants along with numerous other animals, reptiles, and birds. It has actively participated in rescue operations in nations like Mexico and Venezuela, partnering with organisations like Venezuelan National Foundation of Zoos, the Smithsonian and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, in addition to various Indian zoological parks.
“We hope Vantara becomes a beacon of hope globally and can showcase how a forward-thinking institution can help the global biodiversity conservation initiatives,” Anant added.
