Gujarat forest dept and Vantara partner to introduce spotted deer in Banni Grasslands

In a step toward supporting wildlife diversity in the Banni Grasslands, the Gujarat forest department introduced 20 spotted deer into a designated 70-hectare protected area in collaboration with Vantara, a wildlife rescue and conservation initiative founded by Anant Ambani.

The Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre operates under Vantara, which initiative aims to strengthen biodiversity in one of Asia’s largest grassland ecosystems.

The deer, moved from Vantara’s ex-situ conservation facility in Jamnagar, were transported to Kutch in specially designed ambulances. The release was carried out under the supervision of the forest department, with Vantara providing technical and logistical support, in line with conservation protocols.

Before the release, teams from the Gujarat forest department and Vantara conducted a field assessment to evaluate the habitat and identify ecological measures for future restoration. The review included forest officials, Vantara’s wildlife biologists and veterinarians, and supports the state’s broader conservation plan.

Dr. Brij Kishor Gupta, director of the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, said the initiative reflects a collaborative approach to conservation, where scientific expertise and logistical support are combined to strengthen biodiversity in the Banni Grasslands. "Contributing to government-led efforts, the focus remains on achieving meaningful conservation outcomes through partnerships grounded in shared objectives."

The Banni Grasslands, covering 2,618 sq. km in Gujarat’s Kutch district, are among Asia’s largest and ecologically important grassland ecosystems. Surveys have recorded 12 mammal species across the region, including six carnivores and two herbivores. Key species include the Indian gazelle, Indian wolf, golden jackal, nilgai, striped hyena, and Indian fox.

The Gujarat forest department continues to work on ecological management in Banni, including restoring degraded areas, controlling invasive species, and encouraging native grass growth important for local wildlife.

The spotted deer introduction is part of efforts to restore ecological balance in Banni. Vantara continues to support the project with scientific knowledge, veterinary care, and technical infrastructure as part of government-led conservation work.