Global Wildlife Body CITES and Supreme Court SIT Give Vantara a Clean Chit

In a major development for wildlife conservation in India, the Vantara initiative in Jamnagar has received a decisive endorsement from the global community. During the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES, held recently in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the international body overwhelmingly supported India’s stance, confirming there are no grounds to take action against the country regarding animal imports.

This international backing serves as a strong validation of Vantara’s operations, recognizing it as a lawful and scientifically managed hub for wildlife care. The decision reinforces the facility's reputation as one of the most ethically governed conservation centers globally.

International Inspection Confirms World-Class Standards

The endorsement follows a rigorous inspection by the CITES Secretariat, a UN-linked authority on wildlife trade compliance. In September 2025, officials conducted a detailed two-day mission to the Gujarat facility, examining everything from veterinary systems and enclosures to rescue protocols.

In their report submitted on September 30, 2025, the Secretariat described Vantara as a world-class institution driven by animal welfare. The report specifically noted that the center possesses modern infrastructure and does not participate in commercial animal trading. Furthermore, the investigation highlighted the facility’s transparency and full cooperation with international regulations.

Supreme Court SIT Finds Allegations Baseless

This global recognition mirrors the findings of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Supreme Court of India. The SIT was tasked with probing various allegations regarding legal, financial, and welfare parameters. After a comprehensive audit involving document reviews and site visits, the SIT concluded that all media reports and complaints against the center were completely unfounded and lacked any factual basis.

The inquiry confirmed that every animal at the center was acquired legally with valid permits for non-commercial purposes. The investigation also ruled out any financial irregularities or smuggling, noting that the center actually exceeds Central Zoo Authority regulations.

With both national and international bodies clearing its name, Vantara continues to stand as a benchmark for rescue and rehabilitation, delivering conservation efforts at scale.