Vantara to Offer Chain-Free Haven for 20 Rescued Elephants

Vantara has meticulously planned the transportation of these elephants, adhering to guidelines under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Jamnagar, Gujarat (India CSR): Vantara, a celebrated rescue center for captive elephants and other wildlife, founded by visionary philanthropist Anant Ambani, is set to welcome 20 elephants rescued from the exploitative logging industry in Arunachal Pradesh. These elephants—10 males, 8 females, 1 sub-adult, and 1 calf—were liberated with the consent of their current owners and approval from the Supreme Court-appointed High Powered Committee. At Vantara, these majestic animals will find a permanent, chain-free sanctuary that mirrors their natural habitat, free from labor and exploitation.

Tales of Resilience and Trauma

The rescued elephants bring stories of immense suffering. Laxmi, a 10-year-old sub-adult, bears deep, untreated wounds on her hind legs and a fresh hole in her ear from brutal taming methods. Maya, a 2-year-old calf, was rescued with her mother, Rongmoti, who endured severe harness-induced lesions. Ramu, a bull elephant, faced severe physical and psychological distress during his musth period due to restrictive tethering, while Babulal suffered a broken and bleeding tail from a conflict with a wild bull. These cases exemplify the cruelty these animals endured before their rescue.

Empowering Mahouts and Owners

The initiative extends beyond elephant welfare, offering a transformative opportunity for their former owners and mahouts. Vantara will provide training in humane, science-backed elephant management techniques, equipping mahouts and their families with new skills and sustainable livelihoods. This compassionate transition ensures long-term care for the elephants while empowering the people who once depended on them for income.

Ensuring Safe and Humane Transport

Vantara has meticulously planned the transportation of these elephants, adhering to guidelines under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. With permissions from the Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh Forest Departments, the elephants will travel in specially designed ambulances. Maya, the calf, will remain alongside her mother during the journey. Over 200 experts, including veterinarians, caretakers, and paravets, will oversee the safe transportation of these animals, prioritizing their welfare.

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The Decline of Captive Logging Elephants

A 2020 research paper published in Gajah highlighted the decline in private ownership of elephants in Arunachal Pradesh, following the logging ban. Captive elephants, often bred in forested areas, suffer from injuries, arthritis, and psychological trauma. The transfer of 20 elephants to Vantara marks a critical shift toward sustainable conservation and welfare practices.

Voices of Support and Hope

Mr. Tabang Jamoh, Divisional Forest Officer, Namsai, emphasized the initiative’s balanced approach to conservation and community well-being. “This transfer ensures a brighter future for these elephants while supporting local communities with alternative livelihoods,” he said.
Dr. Sorang Tadap, Veterinary Officer, highlighted the urgent need for facilities like Vantara to provide round-the-clock care for rescued elephants, setting a benchmark for welfare.

A Mahout’s Perspective

Chow Thamasala Mein, a former elephant owner, expressed gratitude for the initiative: “With logging banned, we no longer want our elephants to suffer. At Vantara, they will receive the care they deserve. This initiative also secures a stable income and future for our families.”

A Haven for Healing and Dignity

In the logging industry, elephants endured relentless labor, physical abuse, and deprivation. Constantly chained, their natural behaviors were suppressed, causing psychological trauma. At Vantara, these elephants will reclaim their dignity, roam freely, and live as they should, setting a powerful example of compassion and humane wildlife management.

(India CSR)