CITES Member Nations Endorse India’s Stand on Vantara, Reject Need for Action on Animal Imports

Jamnagar (Gujarat), 27th November 2025: India secured strong international backing at the Twentieth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CITES in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, as the Standing Committee and a large majority of member nations endorsed the country’s position that no evidence exists to justify any action against India regarding wildlife imports.

This decision comes as a significant boost for Vantara in Jamnagar, which has faced scrutiny from some advocacy groups and media reports. The endorsement highlights that the wildlife care and conservation model followed at Vantara aligns with global norms and regulatory standards.

In September 2025, a CITES Secretariat team — the UN-linked body that oversees global wildlife trade compliance — conducted a detailed two-day assessment at Vantara. The inspection covered enclosures, veterinary systems, documentation, rescue protocols, and welfare measures.

In its report submitted to the Standing Committee on September 30, 2025, the Secretariat described Vantara as a welfare-driven institution equipped with modern infrastructure, advanced veterinary care, and strong rescue and rehabilitation facilities. It also noted that the centre does not engage in commercial wildlife trade and has cooperated fully with CITES processes.

During Sunday’s deliberations, member nations reiterated support for India’s stance, effectively countering concerns raised in public discourse. The decision places on record that Vantara’s operations are consistent with principles of conservation and compliance.

The international findings echo conclusions reached by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) appointed by the Supreme Court of India to verify allegations related to wildlife acquisition, financial practices, and regulatory adherence. After extensive inspections, document audits, and consultations with national and global authorities, the SIT found the complaints to be “unfounded, baseless, and devoid of any factual or legal foundation.”

The SIT’s review confirmed that all animals were imported legally for recognised non-commercial purposes with valid permits, and found no evidence of wildlife smuggling, money laundering, or financial irregularities. It further stated that Vantara complies with, and in several areas exceeds, the standards set by the Central Zoo Authority. The facility is also accredited with Global Humane Certified™ status.

With both international and national review bodies affirming compliance, authorities say the record is now clear on Vantara’s operations.

As India aims to strengthen its position in global wildlife conservation, officials state that the outcome reinforces the possibilities of large-scale scientific and welfare-centric rescue and rehabilitation efforts within the country.