FOLLOWING THE SC, THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE TRADE (CITES) ALSO GAVE A CLEAN CHIT TO VANTARA

FOLLOWING THE SC, THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE TRADE (CITES) ALSO GAVE A CLEAN CHIT TO VANTARA

5-NOV-ENG 1

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

DELHI-------------------------The Convention on International Wildlife Trade (CITES), an organization that monitors the illegal trade of endangered species of wild animals and birds worldwide, has openly praised the excellent practices and operations of the Vantara Project in Jamnagar, Gujarat, and its two associated organizations, the Green Zoological Rescue and Recovery Center (GZRRC) and the Radhakrishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT). Previously, the Supreme Court had also given a clean chit to Vantara.

In its investigation report, CITES stated that both institutions operate to the highest standards. Modern enclosures, medical care, and advanced facilities are available for the animals. According to the report, these institutions have achieved several significant successes in the field of veterinary medicine. Going a step further, the report recommended that these institutions should share their veterinary experience with the scientific community.

The report stated that India's wildlife protection and regulatory system meets international standards, and Vantara is setting new precedents in the field of animal conservation. CITES stated that the Indian government has ensured that all animal import processes conducted by GZRRC and RKTEWT are fully legal and transparent, in accordance with Indian laws.

The organization's investigation found that all animals were brought to India under CITES export or re-export permits. No animals were brought to India without permits. Furthermore, there was no indication of the import or sale of animals for any commercial purpose. The report specifically highlighted how Vantara had cancelled the import of chimpanzees from Cameroon due to a lack of transparency.