In a significant step toward biodiversity restoration, the Gujarat Forest Department, in collaboration with Vantara, a wildlife rescue and conservation initiative founded by Anant Ambani, has successfully reintroduced 33 spotted deer (chital) into Barda Wildlife Sanctuary.
The move aims to revive the natural ecological balance, strengthen herbivore populations, and improve the overall health of the sanctuary, which spans 192.31 sq km in Porbandar district.
Safe and Scientifically Guided Release
The deer were translocated from Vantara’s ex-situ conservation facility in Jamnagar using specially designed wildlife ambulances. The release was carried out after thorough ecological assessments to ensure suitability and readiness of the habitat.
Vantara provided veterinary care, scientific expertise, and logistical support, ensuring the reintroduction complied with global conservation protocols.
Restoring Barda’s Lost Balance
Historically, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary was home to sambar, chital, and chinkara, but their numbers declined sharply due to habitat fragmentation and ecological pressures. The reintroduction of spotted deer marks a revival of native species and supports the sanctuary’s predator population, including leopards, hyenas, wolves, and jackals.
The sanctuary also shelters rare bird species such as the spotted eagle and crested hawk-eagle, making balanced herbivore numbers crucial for the ecosystem.
Experts Call It a Model for Collaboration
Dr. Brij Kishor Gupta, Director of the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, called the initiative “a pivotal step in restoring and enriching the biodiversity of Barda.”
He emphasized that the effort represents a new benchmark in conservation, showcasing how government departments and private initiatives like Vantara can collaborate to achieve measurable outcomes in wildlife management.
A Broader Vision for Indian Conservation
This reintroduction is part of a wider vision for habitat revitalisation and could become a model for other Indian states looking to restore native species. With strong government backing and private-sector partnerships, Gujarat is positioning itself as a leader in scientifically guided conservation practices.
