Jamnagar, Gujarat – August 18, 2025:
Vantara, India’s pioneering wildlife rescue and conservation initiative founded by Anant Ambani, has launched its flagship Veterinary Training Course on Conservation Medicine at its state-of-the-art campus in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The three-day programme, which runs from August 18 to 20, 2025, aims to strengthen veterinary expertise in wildlife health management and contribute to the nation’s conservation goals.
A Landmark Initiative for Wildlife Health
The inaugural ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. V. Clement Ben, IFS, Member Secretary, Central Zoo Authority; Mr. Digvijay Singh Khati, Former PCCF & CWLW, Government of Uttarakhand; Dr. Pradeep K. Malik, Former Senior Professor & Head, Wildlife Institute of India; and Dr. Brij Kishor Gupta, Director, Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC).
While addressing the gathering, these experts emphasized the urgent need for advanced veterinary training in India, especially at a time when wildlife faces growing threats from habitat loss, climate change, and zoonotic diseases. They applauded Vantara’s commitment to building a stronger, science-driven foundation for animal welfare and biodiversity conservation.
Nationwide Participation in the Training
The training has brought together 54 veterinarians representing zoos, rescue centres, and wildlife care facilities across India. Over the three days, participants are engaging in expert-led sessions, classroom lectures, clinical demonstrations, and hands-on fieldwork at Vantara’s advanced facilities.
The curriculum has been designed to improve skills in:
- Wildlife health management
- Emergency medical response
- Disease surveillance and diagnostics
- Preventive healthcare practices
- Modern approaches to anaesthesia, nutrition, and reproductive health
The programme is being conducted by Vantara’s team of leading specialists, along with respected national and international experts in the field of wildlife conservation.
Advanced Training at World-Class Facilities
Participants are gaining first-hand exposure at some of Vantara’s most advanced facilities, including:
- Wildlife Multispecialty Hospital – equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment infrastructure.
- Cheetah Conservation Centre – dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of cheetahs.
- Elephant Care Centre – a specialized unit focused on nutrition, podiatry, dentistry, and overall health of elephants.
- Rescue Centre for Herbivores – offering critical support for rescued and injured species.
Through practical learning experiences, veterinarians are exploring modern techniques in treating diverse species, handling emergency situations, and preventing disease outbreaks in captive and free-ranging wildlife populations.
Emphasis on Preventive Healthcare and Zoonotic Risks
One of the most significant aspects of the course is its focus on zoonotic diseases—illnesses that can spread between animals and humans. Experts are highlighting the importance of disease surveillance systems and early detection methods, given the global rise in zoonotic threats.
In addition, sessions on preventive healthcare practices cover crucial areas like:
- Animal nutrition and balanced diets
- Podiatry and hoof care
- Dental treatment for wild animals
- Reproductive health management
Such practices not only improve animal welfare but also reduce long-term risks of disease outbreaks.
Voices from the Inauguration
During the ceremony, Dr. Brij Kishor Gupta, Director of the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, said:
“This programme underscores Vantara’s commitment to building a robust veterinary network dedicated to wildlife conservation. By equipping veterinarians with practical expertise and exposure to global best practices, we aim to enhance the long-term care of animals and contribute meaningfully to safeguarding India’s rich biodiversity.”
His remarks reflected the shared vision of creating a nationwide community of skilled veterinary professionals who can lead conservation efforts in their respective regions.
Part of Vantara’s Healing the Wild Initiative
This training is being conducted under “Healing the Wild”, Vantara’s flagship initiative that focuses on advancing veterinary care, promoting scientific wildlife management, and supporting government-led conservation programmes across India.
At the conclusion of the course on August 20, all participants will receive official Certificates of Participation, marking their successful completion of this specialized training in Conservation Medicine.
Key Details of the Veterinary Training Programme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Veterinary Training Course on Conservation Medicine |
| Organiser | Vantara, Jamnagar, Gujarat |
| Duration | August 18 – 20, 2025 (3 Days) |
| Participants | 54 veterinarians from zoos & wildlife centres across India |
| Key Focus | Wildlife health management, disease surveillance, emergency response, preventive healthcare |
| Facilities Used | Wildlife Multispecialty Hospital, Cheetah Conservation Centre, Elephant Care Centre, Herbivore Rescue Centre |
| Initiative | Healing the Wild – Vantara’s flagship conservation programme |
| Certificates | Awarded on August 20, 2025 |
Vantara’s Wider Commitment to Wildlife Conservation
With over 150,000 animals representing more than 2,000 species, and a workforce of 3,500+ dedicated professionals, Vantara has become a global benchmark in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation.
The organisation has been consistently conducting knowledge-sharing events and training sessions to expand national and international capacity in wildlife care. Recent and upcoming initiatives include:
- National Gajsevak Sammelan (July 2025) – focused on elephant welfare and management.
- International Training for Wildlife Officials from Congo – enhancing cross-border collaboration in conservation.
- National Veterinary Training on Conservation Medicine (August 2025) – current programme in Jamnagar.
- National Zoo Directors’ Conference (October 2025) – upcoming event to bring together leaders from India’s zoological institutions.
Each of these platforms provides opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strengthening India’s position in global wildlife conservation.
Also read: Vantara India’s Largest and Most Advanced Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre
Conclusion: Vantara
The flagship Veterinary Training Course on Conservation Medicine hosted by Vantara in Jamnagar is more than just a training programme—it is a significant step toward strengthening India’s wildlife healthcare system. By empowering veterinarians with practical knowledge, global expertise, and exposure to modern facilities, Vantara is shaping a new era of scientific wildlife management.
With initiatives like this, Anant Ambani’s Vantara continues to emerge as a beacon of conservation, animal welfare, and sustainable future for biodiversity in India.