Supreme Court Vantara – The Supreme Court of India has given a major relief to Reliance Foundation’s wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre, Vantara, located in Jamnagar, Gujarat. After a detailed investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), the court declared that the centre has not violated any laws.
What the Supreme Court Said
A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and Prasanna B. Varale said that the inquiry by the SIT was “detailed and sufficient.” The judges confirmed that:
- Vantara followed all government rules in acquiring animals.
- Experts and multiple agencies were consulted during the investigation.
- There is no need for further hearings on this matter.
Justice Mithal clearly stated: once the court has accepted the SIT report, no one will be allowed to raise the same objections again.
Also read: Vantara Launches Veterinary Training on Conservation Medicine in Jamnagar
How the SIT Investigation Was Done
The SIT was formed on 25 August 2025 and included respected names like:
- Justice Jasti Chelameswar (former Supreme Court judge, chairman)
- Justice Raghavendra Chauhan (former High Court chief justice)
- Hemant Nagrale (former Mumbai police commissioner)
- Anish Gupta (customs commissioner)
The team visited Jamnagar, checked all documents, spoke with staff, and worked with 16 different government agencies. They found no illegal activities at Vantara.
Why Vantara Was Under Question
The case began because two petitions were filed earlier in 2025. The petitions claimed:
- Exotic and endangered animals were imported illegally.
- There were violations of India’s Wildlife Protection Act.
- International CITES norms were ignored.
- The centre was operating without proper permissions.
However, after the SIT review, these claims were found baseless.
Also read: Supreme Court Orders Petition Changes in Vantara Elephant Mahadevi Case Before August 25 Hearing
What is Vantara?
Vantara, earlier called Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, is a huge 3,500-acre wildlife facility built inside Reliance’s Jamnagar refinery complex.
- Started in 2023 by Anant Ambani.
- Home to 2,000+ animals from 400 species.
- Includes elephants, lions, leopards, reptiles, and rare birds.
- Many animals were rescued from circuses, temples, and zoos.
- World-class veterinary hospitals, breeding programs, and animal care units.
Every year, Vantara spends around ₹150–200 crore for the health and safety of its animals. This includes international vet teams, air-conditioned hospitals, and specialized diets.
Final Words
The Supreme Court’s clean chit is a huge relief for Reliance Foundation and Vantara. It shows that the centre is working within the law to protect and care for wildlife. With this verdict, all doubts about illegal animal trade or violations stand cleared.
Vantara continues to remain one of India’s largest and most modern wildlife rescue and conservation projects.
