March 5, 2025 - On the occasion of World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday officially inaugurated the animal conservation centre Vantara, in Jamnagar, Gujarat. It is a dedicated centre for conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife and was established on the initiative of Anant Ambani, the son of industrialist Mukesh Ambani and director on the Boards of RIL and Reliance Foundation.

The Prime Minister spent a significant amount of time at Vantara touring the place with the Ambani family. The centre spans 3,000 acres and has world-class facilities for animals. PM Modi visited the specially-designed multi-specialty hospital for animals, where he observed live demonstrations of diagnostic equipment like CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds and endoscopy. He also paid a visit to the ICU and operating theatre created for animals plus the nursery established for newborn animals. The PM lauded the dedication and hard work of the staff at the centre.

The centre is involved in the conservation of animals like Asiatic lions, snow leopards and the one-horned rhinoceros. The Prime Minister viewed the cubs of Asiatic lions, white lions and the rare and endangered species, the clouded leopard. He also observed several ferocious animals up close, including golden tigers, white lions and snow leopards.

Vantara is designed to provide every animal with a home suited to its needs. Various centres, such as the Kingdom of Lions, Kingdom of Reptiles, Kingdom of Seals and the Cheetah Breeding Centre, have been established to house the animals.

The biggest attraction at the centre is the Gajangari, a 1,000-acre area specially created for elephants. More than 240 rescued or sick elephants are housed here. These elephants, who have suffered neglect and abuse, receive veterinary treatment and care at Vantara. The centre also has the world’s largest hospital for elephants, complete with ponds and jacuzzi-like facilities.