Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan: Vantara and Project Elephant join hands to train over 100 elephant caregivers from across the country in a first-of-its-kind national initiative.
In a major step towards improving the care and wellbeing of elephants in India, Vantara — India’s largest wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center established by Anant Ambani, Director at Jio Platforms — has teamed up with the Project Elephant of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to launch the country’s largest elephant caregiver training programme.
This five-day training, known as the “Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan,” is being held at Vantara’s world-class facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The event has attracted over 100 mahouts and elephant caregivers from across India.
What is the Goal of This Programme?
The main aim of this Sammelan is to teach caregivers how to take better care of elephants using both traditional wisdom and modern science. The programme focuses on improving the daily care routines, health practices, and emergency responses for elephants living under human care.
After completing the training, each participant will receive a certification, making them officially recognized as trained elephant caregivers.
Also read: Vantara Wildlife Initiative Hosts International Wildlife Training for Congo Delegates in Gujarat
What Makes This Training Unique?
According to Vivaan Karani, CEO of Vantara:
“This Sammelan is more than a training event — it’s a salute to the people who care for elephants every single day. We are combining old traditions with modern science to build a better future for these gentle giants.”
The event began with a warm welcome ceremony and maha aarti at the Radhe Krishna Temple, giving the training a spiritual start. The Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust is hosting this unique gathering, which is being conducted in various specialized zones such as Gajwan, Gajraj Nagari, and Ganesh Nagari.
What Will the Caregivers Learn?
During this five-day workshop, caregivers are receiving hands-on training in areas like:
- Foot care and bathing methods
- Positive reinforcement techniques
- Traditional Ayurvedic treatments
- Identifying stress and sickness in elephants
- Handling emergency situations
- Mental health and safety of caregivers
They are also attending scientific lectures to learn more about elephant biology, behavior, and health.
Why This Matters for India
This Sammelan is not just about training. It also acts as a national platform where elephant caregivers from different states can share their experiences, solve problems together, and build strong connections for the future.
Vantara itself is home to over 250 rescued elephants and employs more than 500 caregivers, many of whom were once in difficult life situations. This initiative shows how ethical and loving care can create a better life — not just for animals, but also for the humans who serve them.
Vantara’s Ongoing Efforts
Vantara is also playing a key role in international wildlife care. Currently, it is hosting training for forest officials from Congo. Additionally, Vantara has announced two important upcoming events:
- National Veterinary Training on Conservation Medicine – August
- National Zoo Directors’ Conference – October
Final Thoughts
The Vantara Gajsevak Sammelan is a shining example of how India is combining heart and science to protect its elephants. This initiative not only honors the hardworking mahouts but also builds a better and safer future for the country’s beloved elephants.
