Supreme Court Deems Jamnagar a Safe and Optimal Home for Vantara’s Animals

Supreme Court in its judgement stated that Jamnagar has been reaffirmed as an ideal and safe location for wildlife conservation, with experts confirming that the region’s climatic conditions, air and water quality, and surrounding ecosystem are well-suited for the thriving of diverse species housed at Vantara.

Further, the SC report highlighted that globally it is not unusual for leading zoological establishments to be located within or near urbanised or industrialised areas. Examples cited include the Bronx Zoo in New York, Tierpark Berlin in Germany, and the London Zoo in Regent’s Park, all of which operate successfully in metropolitan centres. The SIT also drew parallels with protected areas such as Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park in South Africa, Doñana National Park in Spain and the Everglades National Park in the United States, which coexist alongside industrial or urban activity.

The Indian Supreme Court has officially cleared Vantara — a wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and zoological facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat — of any wrongdoing regarding its animal acquisitions and welfare practices. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), appointed by the Court and led by former Justice J. Chelameswar, inquired into accusations including illegal acquisition of animals (especially elephants), non-compliance with wildlife protection and zoo rules, and whether the placement of the facility near industrial zones and residential areas posed ecological or health risks.

After inspecting documents, field conditions, import/export permits, air and water quality, habitat setups, and compliance with laws such as the Wildlife (Protection) Act, the Recognition of Zoo Rules, CITES, etc., the SIT found that Vantara operates within “regulatory framework” and meets or exceeds many of the statutory and normative standards relevant to animal welfare.

Specifically concerning the location, the Court reaffirmed that Jamnagar’s climate, ecosystem, air and water quality are sufficiently suitable for the species housed there. It also refuted claims that proximity to industrial areas or dense habitation poses a significant threat, pointing out that other renowned zoological and conservation facilities worldwide also coexist near urban or industrial environments without sacrificing animal welfare

In its detailed report, the Supreme Court–appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) noted that Vantara’s facilities are situated near a large residential township, several villages, and dense residential areas, demonstrating that the location is already inhabited without adverse health or ecological impacts. The SIT emphasised that the allegation of unsuitability due to proximity to an industrial zone is not borne out by facts.

The judgement thus gives Vantara legal and public legitimacy, directing that no further complaints on the same grounds can be entertained in judicial or statutory forums

Vantara (also known as the Greens Zoological Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre) is a large wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. It is run by the Reliance Foundation, under the leadership of Anant Ambani

Under the visionary and empathetic leadership of Anant Ambani, Vantara has not only become a model for world-class animal care but has also fostered a culture of compassion and scientific conservation. His hands-on involvement and commitment to ethical practices ensure that every initiative at Vantara, from conservation to habitat enrichment, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of its residents, setting a new standard for wildlife conservation centres globally.