CITES Commends India's Vantara: A Leader in Wildlife Conservation and Care

CITES Lauds Vantara's Wildlife Conservation Efforts

In a recent recognition of India's dedication to wildlife protection, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has expressed admiration for Vantara, a prominent initiative in animal welfare. This acknowledgment highlights Vantara's commitment to superior standards of wildlife care, including stringent compliance with international wildlife trade regulations.

Following an official evaluation by the CITES Secretariat in September, detailed observations were presented at the CITES Standing Committee meeting held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The examination confirmed India's robust wildlife protection framework, commending Vantara for its advanced veterinary practices and ethical management of endangered species.

Setting High Standards for Wildlife Welfare

According to CITES, both the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) and the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust (RKTEWT), which fall under Vantara, operate at exemplary levels. These centers boast facilities characterized by well-designed enclosures and comprehensive veterinary care, thus meeting the safeguarding requirements of Appendix I species as outlined in Article III of the Convention. Notably, the report affirmed that Vantara effectively prohibits illegal imports and commercial breeding activities, showcasing a clean operational record in wildlife trade.

The CITES report lauded India's Wildlife (Protection) Act, which, following its amendments in 2022, aligns seamlessly with global obligations. This legislative framework has placed India in the highest compliance category under CITES’ National Legislation Project, a distinction held by only a handful of nations. Furthermore, the CITES Secretariat asserted that allegations concerning improper wildlife imports into India were unfounded, reinforcing the transparency and lawfulness of the conservation practices undertaken by Vantara.

Advancing Both Science and Compassion

CITES celebrated not only the regulatory compliance of Vantara but also its commitment to scientific and humane animal care. Remarkably, GZRRC and RKTEWT have achieved significant advancements in veterinary treatment and foster a culture of excellence that encourages sharing these insights with the global scientific community. This initiative aims to uplift international animal welfare standards.

The facilities offer rescued animals expansive, naturalistic environments combined with top-tier medical care and enrichment programs, focusing on both their psychological and physical wellbeing. Vantara firmly believes that their mission is not the sale of animals or their offspring, ensuring that their conservation-first philosophy prevails.

Institutional Recognition and Breeding Successes

In 2019, GZRRC was officially recognized by Indian authorities, receiving revalidations in 2023 and again in 2025 due to its consistent compliance with national standards. Meanwhile, RKTEWT garnered official zoo recognition from the Central Zoo Authority in July 2025. These two facilities collectively provide a sanctuary to over 47,000 animals from thousands of species, maintaining authorized breeding programs for 42 species, including both native and non-native species. Their successful breeding programs include the Asiatic lion—native to India—and the critically endangered Spix macaw, embodying hope for global biodiversity recovery efforts.

A Model for Global Wildlife Conservation

CITES' commendation signals a crucial milestone for India's conservation journey. It reflects the country's adherence to international law and an evolving ethos underpinned by compassion and ecological responsibility. Vantara's initiatives meld tradition with modern practices, where ethical governance, cutting-edge veterinary science, and spiritual commitment reimagine the standards of responsible wildlife care in the 21st century.

As recognized by CITES, India's efforts illustrate what competent and compassionate conservation looks like, setting a benchmark for the world in preserving our shared natural heritage. This commendation not only validates Vantara's hard work but also serves as a prototype for wildlife conservation efforts globally.