Elephant calf airlifted from Keralam to Vantara for life-saving treatment
Maya, an elephant calf with severe leg fractures, was airlifted from Kerala to a specialized hospital in Jamnagar for advanced medical treatment. The rescue was facilitated by the Vantara wildlife initiative.
Why it matters
The story underscores the role of private wildlife conservation efforts and advanced veterinary medicine in protecting endangered species.
Maya, an elephant calf found alone as a newborn on a riverbank 18 months ago, was airlifted from Keralam to Vantara's hospital in Jamnagar on Nov 5, after fractures in both front legs left her unable to stand.Acting on an initiative by RIL exec director and Vantara founder Anant Ambani, the organisation deployed a specialised veterinary team following a transfer order from Keralam's chief wildlife warden, P Pugazhendi.Found near Kaprikkad on Apr 19, 2025, the weak, dehydrated newborn had not received her mother's milk and couldn't even suckle. Assistant forest veterinary officer Binoy Babu and caregivers fed and nursed her for over a year.In July 2026, Maya slipped while playing and injured her shoulder. Despite physiotherapy, splints & supplements, her bones became increasingly fragile.
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