New Delhi: Vantara, a leading sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of captive elephants and other wildlife in Gujarat’s Jamnagar, is set to welcome 20 elephants rescued from the harsh conditions of the logging industry in Arunachal Pradesh. The operation has received the green light from a High-Powered Committee appointed by the Tripura High Court, with oversight from the Supreme Court.
The rescued group includes a diverse mix of 10 male and 8 female elephants, alongside one sub-adult and a calf. These elephants have faced years of exploitation, forced labour, and abuse within the logging sector. Upon their arrival at Vantara, they will live in a chain-free environment that replicates their natural habitat, freeing them from the torment of captivity and labour. Among the elephants are Laxmi, a 10-year-old sub-adult with severe untreated wounds and painful ear injuries, and Maya, a tender 2-year-old calf, rescued alongside her mother Rongmoti, both victims of relentless logging work.
One of the most distressing cases is Ramu, a bull elephant who was found severely restrained during his musth period, suffering both physically and psychologically, Hindustan Times reported. Another bull, Babulal, bears the scars of captivity with a broken and bleeding tail after an encounter with a wild bull.
Not just rescue, the new initiative is aimed at opening new pathways for former owners and mahouts. Those who once exploited these animals will receive training in humane and scientifically informed elephant care methods. This initiative aims to empower them with skills for sustainable livelihoods while ensuring that the elephants receive the compassionate care they deserve.
The project adheres to the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 and has garnered necessary approvals from both the Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh Forest Departments. To facilitate a safe journey, the elephants will be transported in specially designed ambulances, with Maya travelling alongside her mother, Rongmoti.
A dedicated team of over 200 professionals, including veterinarians and caretakers from Vantara, will oversee the transfer operation, ensuring compliance with animal welfare standards throughout the journey.
As the logging industry’s reliance on elephants diminishes following a ban on wood logging, the future for privately owned elephants in Arunachal Pradesh is being re-evaluated. Tabang Jamoh, Divisional Forest Officer of Namsai, noted that there are around 200 captive elephants in the province. While the decline in demand is promising, the need for improved welfare standards remains critical. The Supreme Court’s directive to transfer these elephants to Vantara is poised to set a precedent for enhancing the living conditions of captive elephants across India.
Chow Thamasala Mein, an elephant owner, expressed optimism about this transformative shift “With wood logging banned, we no longer wish to use our elephants for such labor. We are pleased they will now live a life of care at Vantara. This initiative also provides stable jobs and a steady income for our families, securing a brighter future for our children.”
