Vantara, a renowned rescue centre dedicated to the welfare of captive elephants and wildlife, is set to provide sanctuary to 20 elephants recently rescued from the exploitative logging industry in Arunachal Pradesh.
This groundbreaking rescue operation, authorised by a High-Powered Committee under the Tripura High Court and supervised by the Supreme Court, marks a significant step forward in ensuring compassion and freedom for these majestic creatures.
The rescued elephants, including 10 males, 8 females, 1 sub-adult, and 1 calf, had endured years of abuse and forced labour in the logging industry.
Among them are notable cases such as Laxmi, a 10-year-old sub-adult with untreated deep wounds and painful ear injuries, and Maya, a 2-year-old calf, who was rescued alongside her mother, Rongmoti. Both were victims of grueling forced labour.
Another poignant story is that of Ramu, a bull elephant, who endured severe distress during his musth period, leaving him restrained and both physically and psychologically compromised.
Babulal, another bull, suffered a broken and bleeding tail from an altercation with a wild bull, a tragic result of his years spent in captivity.
These elephants are now on the path to healing, as they begin their new life in an environment designed to mirror their natural habitat.
Vantara’s initiative is not just about the welfare of the elephants but also about providing new opportunities for the former owners, mahouts, and their families.
They will undergo specialised training in humane, scientifically backed elephant care practices. This approach not only ensures the elephants receive the best care but also offers sustainable livelihoods for the families involved.
The project, which complies with the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, has been approved by both the Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh Forest Departments.
Transport arrangements for the elephants have been meticulously planned, with specially designed ambulances ensuring their safety and well-being during transit.
Maya will travel alongside her mother, Rongmoti, to help ease their transition.
A team of over 200 experts, including veterinarians, paravets, senior caretakers, and ambulance drivers from Vantara, will oversee the operation. The transfer will be conducted in line with stringent animal welfare regulations, ensuring the elephants' safety throughout the process.
With the decline of the logging industry following a government ban on wood logging, the future of privately owned elephants in Arunachal Pradesh is uncertain.
Divisional Forest Officer Tabang Jamoh noted that the region has approximately 200 captive elephants. While the decline in demand for these animals in forestry is a positive change, the need for better welfare standards remains pressing.
Dr. Sorang Tadap, a Veterinary Officer at Itanagar Biological Park, emphasised the health challenges faced by captive elephants, including untreated injuries, arthritis, and psychological trauma.
Chow Thamasala Mein, one of the former elephant owners, expressed his support for the initiative, saying, “With wood logging banned, we no longer wish to use our elephants for such labour. 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.”
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