It is a well-known fact that billionaire Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani’s youngest son, Anant Ambani, holds a deep compassion for animals. His passion can clearly be seen through the operations of the Vantara Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Now, Anant Ambani is taking his animal welfare mission to a new level by launching one of India’s largest and most ambitious initiatives — the Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change under its flagship Project Elephant, Vantara is organizing this massive training camp dedicated to mahouts (elephant caretakers) and elephant caregivers. The event marks a historic moment in India’s journey towards more ethical and scientific elephant care.
What is Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan?
Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan is India’s largest training program focused entirely on elephant caregivers. The main goal of this conference is to combine traditional knowledge with modern scientific practices, thus creating a compassionate and stronger foundation for elephant welfare.
This approach recognizes that the future of elephant conservation in India does not rely solely on policies or protected habitats. Instead, it depends equally — if not more — on the skilled and caring hands of those who directly work with the animals every day. By empowering these caretakers, Vantara aims to revolutionize the way elephants are cared for across the country.
Where is the Sammelan Taking Place?
This groundbreaking event is being held at the state-of-the-art Vantara facility in Jamnagar, managed under the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust, a non-profit initiative of Vantara. The location provides a unique environment that blends cutting-edge technology with field-based experiences, ideal for deep learning and practical exposure.
Participants in the Sammelan are divided into groups and assigned to specialized elephant care zones like Gajwan, Gajraj Nagari, and Ganesh Nagari. These zones offer practical, hands-on experience in:
- Daily feeding and hygiene routines
- Foot care practices
- Bathing protocols
- Positive reinforcement techniques
- Musth (aggressive state in male elephants) management
- Traditional Ayurvedic healing techniques
This direct interaction with trained experts and rescued elephants helps participants gain valuable experience that can be taken back to their respective regions.
Scientific Learning with Real-World Experience
In addition to fieldwork, the Sammelan also features several scientific sessions. These classes cover in-depth topics like:
- Elephant biology and behavior
- Identifying stress in elephants
- Common health issues and disease prevention
- Emergency care for lying or injured elephants
Special segments are also dedicated to the occupational health, safety, and mental well-being of the caregivers themselves. The Sammelan gives recognition to the crucial role these individuals play in long-term elephant care.
By blending science with compassion, the event ensures that every caregiver leaves with improved skills, deeper empathy, and greater awareness of ethical animal handling.
Also read: What Is the Meaning of Vantara? Uncovering the Story Behind This Unique Term
How Many Elephants Are in Vantara?
The Vantara centre, under the leadership of Anant Ambani, is currently home to over 250 rescued elephants. These elephants come from various backgrounds — some from circuses, some from neglect, and others from illegal captivity. They now live in a safe, nurturing environment designed specifically for their recovery and care.
A dedicated team of 500+ trained caregivers, many of whom come from marginalized or rural backgrounds, provide round-the-clock attention to these majestic animals. These caregivers are not just employees — they are the heart and soul of the sanctuary, forming deep emotional bonds with the animals they serve.
Also read: What is this Vantara: India’s Groundbreaking Wildlife Rescue Initiative
Why Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan Matters
The Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan is more than just a training camp. It’s a bold statement — a cultural and ethical shift in how India views and treats its elephants. For centuries, elephants have held a sacred and symbolic place in Indian society, yet their care has often been overlooked or guided solely by tradition.
This Sammelan brings a much-needed scientific and humane lens to elephant welfare. It respects the ancient traditions of mahoutship but enhances them with modern tools, research, and health protocols. In doing so, it lays the groundwork for a national network of professionally trained elephant caregivers.
By partnering with Project Elephant, Vantara is ensuring that the program aligns with the government’s conservation goals, creating a ripple effect across India’s elephant habitats.
Also read: Reliance Foundation Unveils Vantara: Anant Ambani’s Visionary Animal Rescue and Care Project
Conclusion
So, What is Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan?
It is a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening the future of elephant welfare in India through education, compassion, and collaboration. Spearheaded by Anant Ambani and supported by the Government of India, this Sammelan is giving voice, respect, and resources to the very people who protect one of our most beloved animals.
As India continues to advance technologically and environmentally, such initiatives ensure that our compassion for wildlife grows alongside. The Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan sets a benchmark for what animal welfare can and should look like — inclusive, informed, and truly impactful.
