Overview
- The CITES verification mission found Vantara-affiliated centres in Jamnagar operate to exceptionally high standards with advanced enclosures and veterinary care.
- The report said it found no evidence of illegal imports or commercial use at the Greens Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre and the Radha Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust.
- Investigators flagged questions about the origin of some imported animals and the use of source and purpose codes, urging a pause on imports of critically endangered species until due diligence is reinforced.
- India was asked to verify highlighted imports with source or transit countries including Congo, Germany, Guyana, Iraq, Mexico, Syria and the UAE, with a request for a formal report within 90 days.
- India’s legal framework meets CITES benchmarks and the centres are recognised by the Central Zoo Authority, while a Supreme Court-appointed SIT previously affirmed lawful acquisitions.