Secretariat report finds 'exceptionally high standards' at Vantara centers
An international body overseeing endangered species has formally recognized the Vantara initiative in India for its "exceptionally high" animal care standards. The assessment came from the CITES Secretariat, which visited the country in September ahead of its 79th Standing Committee meeting in Uzbekistan. The findings not only praised Vantara's advanced facilities but also commended India's robust legal framework governing wildlife protection.
The CITES mission focused its on-site observations on two primary centers: the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) and the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT). In its report, the Secretariat found that both facilities function "in accordance with exceptionally high standards." The document specifically highlights the presence of advanced infrastructure, comprehensive enclosures, and sophisticated veterinary capabilities. The level of medical care was so notable that the Secretariat encouraged Vantara to publish its veterinary procedures and treatment outcomes, suggesting their methods could hold international relevance for the wider scientific community.
A significant portion of the report addressed the legal and ethical framework of Vantara's operations. The Secretariat confirmed that India's Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, which was updated in 2022, fully meets CITES minimum requirements. The legislation is classified in Category 1 under the National Legislation Project, signaling its robustness and global compliance.
Furthermore, the investigation found no evidence of animals being imported for commercial purposes or without valid CITES permits. This confirms Vantara's ethical acquisition practices are operating under strict Indian oversight. This finding was independently bolstered by a September 15 ruling from the Supreme Court of India, which affirmed that Vantara's animal acquisitions fully complied with all domestic laws and international regulations.
The CITES report reinforces Vantara's stated mission as a rescue, conservation, and breeding center. The organization has explicitly stated it will not sell any animals or their offspring. Success in this area is already evident, with the Central Zoo Authority approving breeding programs for 26 native and 16 non-native species. Successful rearing of Asiatic lions and Spix macaws for future breeding was noted.
Vantara's overarching plan involves integrating these charitable activities into a future public zoo. This facility is intended to support future rewilding and release programs, creating a vital link between public education, direct animal welfare, and ecological restoration.
In conclusion, the CITES Secretariat's findings portray Vantara as a conservation enterprise operating with high technical proficiency. Both Indian authorities and Vantara's management acknowledged the report's guidance and committed to enhancing transparency, record-keeping, and institutional capacity to ensure sustained compliance.
