Vantara, Gujarat Forest Department Join Hands To Boost Wildlife Diversity In Barda Sanctuary

Last Updated:August 20, 2025, 12:38 IST

As part of this collaborative effort, 33 chital (spotted deer) were translocated from Vantara’s ex-situ conservation centre in Jamnagar to the Barda sanctuary.

Deer being translocated from Vantara to Barda sanctuary.

In a major push to revive native wildlife populations, the Gujarat Forest Department has joined forces with Vantara, the wildlife conservation initiative founded by Anant Ambani, to reintroduce spotted deer into the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary.

As part of this collaborative effort, 33 chital (spotted deer) were translocated from Vantara’s ex-situ conservation centre in Jamnagar to the sanctuary. The animals were transported in specially designed ambulances and released into a protected zone after ecological assessments confirmed habitat suitability. The entire operation was conducted under the supervision of the Forest Department, with Vantara providing logistical support, veterinary care, and technical expertise.

Dr Brij Kishor Gupta, Director of the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, described the release as a milestone in habitat restoration. “Spotted deer have long been part of this ecosystem. Their reintroduction, backed by scientific planning, is critical to re-establishing ecological balance in the region," he said. He also highlighted that the initiative reflects the strength of partnerships between government bodies and conservation organizations in shaping effective wildlife management models.

Spread over 192.31 sq km in Porbandar district, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including predators such as leopards, wolves, jackals, and hyenas, along with herbivores like blue bulls. The sanctuary also provides refuge to rare raptors such as the spotted eagle and crested hawk-eagle.

Historically, Barda supported thriving populations of ungulates like sambar, chinkara, and chital. However, these species saw a decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation. With intact habitat structures still in place, the Forest Department aims to gradually reintroduce these native species to restore the sanctuary’s natural trophic balance.

The project is seen as part of a larger conservation roadmap, with the Gujarat government spearheading efforts to strengthen in-situ wildlife protection. By partnering with Vantara, the state hopes to create a replicable model for ecological restoration across India.

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August 20, 2025, 12:38 IST

News india Vantara, Gujarat Forest Department Join Hands To Boost Wildlife Diversity In Barda Sanctuary

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