Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Vantara during his Gujarat visit.
The centre is home to over 1.5 lakh rescued, endangered, and threatened animals from more than 2,000 species.
During his tour, PM Modi explored the state-of-the-art wildlife hospital, equipped with MRI, CT scan, and ICU facilities. He observed the advanced veterinary care provided, including departments for wildlife anaesthesia, cardiology, nephrology, endoscopy, dentistry, and internal medicine. The prime minister witnessed an Asiatic Lion undergoing an MRI and a leopard receiving life-saving surgery after a highway accident.
PM Modi also engaged with the centre’s resident animals, feeding Asiatic Lion cubs, a rare Clouded Leopard cub, and a White Lion cub born at Vantara after its mother’s rescue. He learned about the centre’s Caracal breeding program, which is crucial for the preservation of this rare species.
The prime minister’s visit highlighted Vantara’s commitment to replicating natural habitats showcased through its spacious enclosures. He interacted with Golden Tigers, Snow Leopards, and four Snow Tiger brothers rescued from a circus. PM Modi also spent time with rescued chimpanzees and a playful Orangutan and observed a submerged Hippopotamus and crocodiles. Additionally, he patted an Okapi, walked among zebras, and fed a giraffe and a rhino calf orphaned after its mother’s death at the facility. He also saw a large python, a unique two-headed snake, and a two-headed turtle.
PM Modi observed elephants enjoying hydrotherapy pools for arthritis and foot problems, reflecting Vantara’s focus on animal welfare. He visited the world’s largest elephant hospital and witnessed the release of rescued parrots.
The prime minister’s visit concluded with interactions with the dedicated doctors, staff, and workers at Vantara. His visit emphasized the centre’s crucial role in wildlife conservation and demonstrated India’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage.
