Elephant calf with genetic bone disorder to be flown from Keralam to Gujarat’s Vantara for specialised treatment
An 18-month-old elephant calf with a genetic bone disorder is being transported from Kerala to Gujarat for specialized medical treatment at the Vantara rehabilitation center. The mission involves a chartered flight and veterinary experts to ensure the animal's safety.
Why it matters
It underscores the growing importance of specialized wildlife conservation infrastructure and inter-state cooperation in animal welfare in India.
Kochi An 18-month-old elephant calf suffering from a genetic bone disorder and unable to stand or walk will be flown to Jamnagar in Gujarat on Friday (November 6, 2026) for specialised treatment at Vantara, the Kerala Forest Department said. The calf, weighing around 125 to 130 kg, was shifted from its treatment facility at Kodanad elephant centre in Kochi to an animal ambulance with the help of 10 to 12 people and a crane. Keralam Forest department to get animal ambulances from Vantara animal rehab centre in Gujarat Keralam Forest department to get animal ambulances from Vantara animal rehab centre in Gujarat Two modern animal ambulances — one large for elephants and a mid-sized unit — to be deployed in Keralam after registration, with four forest veterinarians set for a five-day advanced training at Vantara starting October 4.
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