50 leopards from Maharashtra will be sent to 'Vantara', why this decision was taken, what activists said?
Maharashtra Leopard Transfer to Vantara: To curb the increasing human-leopard conflict in Maharashtra and ensure a safe future for wildlife, the state government has taken a major and bold decision. According to the latest information, the Maharashtra government is transferring 50 leopards from various regions of the state to the Reliance Foundation's Vantara Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Conservation Center in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Increasing activity of leopards in rural and residential areas
Sources close to State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik confirmed this news on Friday. It is reported that the increasing activity of leopards in rural and residential areas of Maharashtra has been worrying the administration for some time.
According to sources, the relocation of these leopards was finalized after lengthy discussions between Forest Minister Ganesh Naik and Vantara management. The primary objective of this move is not only to protect humans but also to provide these leopards with an environment where they can receive modern medical care and better protection.
Several dists rocked by leopard attacks
Several districts in Maharashtra, especially Junnar, Nashik, and Ahmednagar, were rocked by leopard attacks in November and December last year. The increasing number of attacks created panic among locals. The Forest Department currently has limited resources and space to house captured leopards. In this situation, the Vantara Centre in Jamnagar, known for its world-class facilities and sensitive approach to wildlife, emerged as an ideal option.
Vantara: A haven for wildlife
Anant Ambani's initiative, 'Vantara', is currently one of the most modern wildlife conservation centers in the world. The animals here are provided with a state-of-the-art hospital, nutrition center, and an environment similar to their natural habitat. The 50 leopards being sent from Maharashtra will be kept here under expert supervision, which will not only improve their health but also help in their behavioral studies.
Process of relocation will begin in the coming weeks
Forest department officials believe this relocation will ease pressure in hotspot areas across the state. This decision also provides an excellent example of public-private partnership (PPP) model in wildlife conservation. The process of relocating these leopards will begin in the coming weeks, with special ambulances and a team of experts deployed.
What activists said?
A post on X by state forest minister Ganesh Naik saying some captured leopards will be shifted to the Vantara wildlife centre in Jamnagar has been opposed by wildlife activists.Sources in the forest department said 67 captured leopards will be translocated to various other places, including 50 to Vantara, to reduce human-animal conflict in Maharashtra.
Activists were critical of the decision, saying it would result in adjustment problems for the animals."The latest tweet of Ganesh Naik has indicated that several leopards will be shifted out. This is wrong since this predatory cat species needs to thrive in its own forest habitats. Sending them to a smaller zoo or wildlife centre is not really a healthy solution," said NatConnect Foundation director B N Kumar.
A Beed-based wildlife activist, Nitin Alkute, said: "For over three months, I have been fighting to release 21 captured leopards who are kept in small cages in Ahilyanagar district. One leopard has died. The forest department was reluctant to release them back in their territories, which is cruel."