Washington. Indian industrialist Anant Ambani, founder of Reliance Industries’ Vantara, was honored with the ‘Global Humanitarian Award for Animal Welfare’. This award was given to him for his unique contribution in the field of animal welfare and conservation. Anant Ambani has become the youngest and first Asian person to receive this honour. The honor was presented at a grand ceremony held in Washington DC, which was attended by wildlife conservation experts and animal welfare activists from around the world.
Global Human Society praised Anant Ambani and Vantara established under his leadership through this award. Vanatara has changed the definition of rescue, rehabilitation and species conservation on a large scale. Their work has set a new global standard in animal welfare and conservation. The organization said that Vantara is not just a rescue centre, but a sanctuary, dedicated to giving dignity, care and hope to every life. Speaking at the event, Dr. Robin Ganzert, President of the Global Humane Society, said, “VanTara receiving ‘Global Humane Certified’ status reflects excellence in care and commitment to animals. Anant Ambani has set a new global standard for putting compassion into action. She also said that the purpose, scale and spirit of VanTara has set a new benchmark for modern animal welfare.
Receiving the honour, Anant Ambani said, conservation is not for tomorrow, but is the religion of today. Through Vantara we want to give dignity and care to every life, guided by the spirit of service. Animals teach us balance, humility and trust. This honor confirms our principle of ‘Sarva Bhoot Hit’.
Previous winners of the award include Hollywood legends Shirley MacLaine, John Wayne, Betty White and former US Presidents John F Kennedy and Bill Clinton. Vanatara received this recognition after a rigorous audit and inspection by global experts, which evaluated aspects of animal welfare, behavioral science, veterinary medicine and ethics. Vantara offers a model of long-term conservation of wildlife by combining ‘ex situ’ and ‘in situ’ conservation. The event was attended by former IUCN Chair Dr. John Paul Rodriguez, Matt James of Colossal Biosciences, and CEOs of several major US zoos. Experts from India like Dr Neelam Khaire, Dr VB Prakash and Dr KK Sarma were also present. The American Humane Society, which has been working in the field of animal welfare for almost 150 years, is the largest animal welfare organization in the world. It ensures the protection and humane treatment of more than 1.5 billion animals in 59 countries every year. In its history, this institution has also honored many American Presidents and world leaders. Anant Ambani’s award not only recognizes his individual contribution but also symbolizes setting new standards for wildlife conservation and animal welfare in India and the world.
