CITES Also Clears Vantara: The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)—the global body that monitors illegal trade in endangered species of animals and birds—has lauded the exemplary operations and practices of the Vantara Project located in Jamnagar, Gujarat, along with its two associated entities, the Green Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) and the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT). Earlier, the Supreme Court of India had also given a clean chit to Vantara.
In its investigation report, CITES noted that both institutions are being run according to very high standards. They provide modern enclosures, medical care, and advanced facilities for the animals. The report further highlighted that these institutions have achieved several significant milestones in the field of veterinary science. Going a step further, the report recommended that their veterinary experience be shared with the scientific community.
The report stated that India’s wildlife protection and regulatory mechanisms meet international standards, and that Vantara is setting new benchmarks in animal conservation. CITES also observed that the Government of India has ensured that all animal import processes undertaken by GZRRC and RKTEWT are fully legitimate and transparent, in accordance with Indian law.
The investigation found that all animals were brought into India under valid CITES export or re-export permits, and that no animal was imported without a permit. Moreover, there was no indication of any import or sale of animals for commercial purposes. The report made special mention of how Vantara had cancelled the proposed import of chimpanzees from Cameroon due to lack of transparency in the process.
