Vantara, India’s pioneering wildlife rescue and rehabilitation initiative, has reached a major milestone by receiving the prestigious Global Humane Conservation Certified™ recognition for its outstanding commitment to animal welfare, humane care, and conservation practices. This honor places Vantara among the world’s top conservation institutions that follow rigorous international standards for protecting and nurturing animals.
The announcement came on September 22, 2025, in Washington, D.C., when the Global Humane Society—the international arm of the American Humane Society—confirmed that Vantara successfully passed its comprehensive independent evaluation. The American Humane Society is known as the United States’ first national humane organization and the largest certifier of animal welfare worldwide, making this certification an extraordinary achievement for India.
What is Vantara?
Located in Gujarat, Vantara is an expansive private wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation project envisioned by Mr. Anant Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL).
Covering nearly 3,500 acres, the center blends modern medical science with natural habitats, ensuring animals receive both cutting-edge treatment and an environment that supports healing. Its advanced facilities include:
- Elephant hydrotherapy pools for physical recovery
- MRI and advanced imaging centers
- Fully equipped surgical theatres
- Rehabilitation enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats
- Wildlife research and conservation laboratories
Vantara goes beyond traditional care by focusing on species conservation, habitat restoration, genetic diversity preservation, and rewilding programs that help rehabilitated animals return to the wild.
Why the Global Humane Conservation Certified™ Title Matters
This recognition is not just symbolic—it is the result of a scientific, evidence-based evaluation conducted by independent experts in animal welfare, zoology, veterinary medicine, and ethics.
Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane Society, shared:
“Vantara has met the highest science-driven standards to achieve Global Humane Conservation Certification. The independent review clearly shows that animal welfare is the top priority and conservation efforts are being advanced at this center.”
The certification ensures that institutions meet strict standards covering every aspect of animal life—from housing, food, and clean water to lighting, enrichment activities, and staff training. Each species has unique requirements, and the evaluation ensures those are met at the highest level.
Vantara’s Comprehensive Model of Care
Vantara has set itself apart by building a comprehensive conservation model that merges care, science, and community responsibility. Its initiatives can be grouped into four major areas:
- Rescue and Rehabilitation
Injured or abandoned animals, as well as those rescued from illegal captivity, are given immediate medical attention and long-term care. - Veterinary Innovation
Facilities like hydrotherapy for elephants and advanced diagnostic tools such as MRIs allow Vantara to deliver human-grade healthcare for animals. - Conservation and Rewilding
Beyond treatment, the center actively works on rewilding and habitat restoration projects, helping rehabilitated species adapt to their natural surroundings again. - Community Engagement
By conducting awareness programs and eco-friendly campaigns, Vantara educates local communities and inspires people to coexist peacefully with wildlife.
The Certification Process Explained
The Global Humane Conservation Certification follows a structured process:
- Scientific Framework: Standards are developed by leading experts in animal science and ethics.
- On-Site Assessments: Auditors visit facilities to examine living conditions, staff interactions, and veterinary practices.
- Species-Specific Evaluations: The welfare requirements of each species—big cats, elephants, reptiles, birds, etc.—are carefully assessed.
- Ongoing Oversight: Certified institutions are reviewed periodically to ensure compliance with global benchmarks.
This makes the certification one of the most trustworthy and respected recognitions in the world of animal welfare. By achieving it, Vantara has set an example for conservation centers across the globe.
The Broader Impact of Vantara
Although based in India, Vantara’s influence goes far beyond national boundaries. By protecting endangered species and restoring ecosystems, it contributes to global biodiversity conservation.
Key global contributions include:
- Safeguarding genetic diversity for species survival
- Supporting climate-conscious initiatives to restore ecosystems
- Sharing research with international conservation networks
- Providing a model for humane, science-based animal care
This approach not only benefits animals but also strengthens the delicate relationship between humans, wildlife, and the environment.
Praise from the Global Community
Animal welfare organizations and conservation experts have welcomed Vantara’s achievement as a game-changing milestone.
- Global Humane Society highlighted the center’s science-backed, compassionate care and world-class infrastructure.
- Local communities in Gujarat see Vantara as a symbol of pride, recognizing its role in educating people about protecting native species and habitats.
Table: Key Highlights of Vantara
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Vantara |
| Location | Gujarat, India |
| Founder & Visionary | Mr. Anant Ambani, Executive Director, Reliance Industries Limited |
| Area | 3,500 acres |
| Special Facilities | Hydrotherapy pools, MRI units, surgical theatres, rehabilitation enclosures |
| Certification Earned | Global Humane Conservation Certified™ |
| Certifying Authority | Global Humane Society (American Humane Society – International arm) |
| Focus Areas | Rescue, rehabilitation, rewilding, habitat restoration, community awareness |
| Global Contribution | Protects endangered species, climate resilience, biodiversity preservation |
Also read: Vantara India Visit: Experience India’s Premier Wildlife Sanctuary
About the Global Humane Society
The Global Humane Society, the international branch of the American Humane Society, is the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare. Each year, it helps verify the humane treatment of over one billion animals across conservation centers, farms, aquariums, and zoos.
With a history spanning more than a century, the American Humane Society has led many of the most significant animal protection initiatives, from rescue missions to policy advocacy. Its Global Humane Conservation Program is the only certification dedicated exclusively to ensuring humane care for wild animals under human protection.
Also read: Vantara Verdict: A Landmark Step in Wildlife Conservation and Public Interest
Looking Ahead: The Future of Vantara
The Global Humane certification is just the beginning of a much larger journey. With this international recognition, Vantara aims to:
- Expand its scientific research programs
- Increase rewilding and release operations
- Strengthen climate-conscious habitat restoration
- Continue educating people about the importance of coexistence
For India, this recognition places the country firmly on the global conservation map. For the world, Vantara represents hope and proof that large-scale, humane conservation is possible when science and compassion work hand in hand.
Also read: Vantara: World’s Largest Animal Rescue, Rehabilitation and Conservation Center in Jamnagar
Conclusion
The achievement of Vantara in earning the Global Humane Conservation Certified™ distinction marks a turning point in wildlife conservation efforts in India. By blending advanced veterinary care, large-scale habitat restoration, and strong community engagement, the center has become a model for humane conservation globally.
As environmental challenges continue to rise, institutions like Vantara remind us that protecting animals is not only a responsibility but a shared duty. With science, compassion, and commitment, a balanced future where humans and wildlife coexist can truly be achieved.
