Washington, D.C. / Jamnagar, India: Anant Ambani, founder of the landmark Vantara wildlife conservation initiative in Jamnagar, has been honoured with the Global Humanitarian Award for Animal Welfare by the Global Humane Society—the international arm of the American Humane Society. At 30, he becomes not only the youngest recipient but also the first Asian to earn this distinguished global recognition.
The award was presented on December 8, 2025, at an international gathering of conservation leaders in Washington, D.C. Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of Global Humane Society, presented the accolade, applauding Ambani’s pioneering leadership and unwavering commitment to animal welfare.
Lauding the Vantara model, Dr. Ganzert said, “Vantara receiving the Global Humane Certified™ distinction reflected not only excellence in care, but a profound dedication to giving every animal dignity, healing, and hope. There is no greater champion of that vision than Mr. Anant Ambani, whose leadership has set a new global standard for compassion in action.”
A World-Class Sanctuary in India’s Heartland
Spread across 3,000 acres in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Vantara has emerged as one of the world’s largest and most advanced animal rescue and rehabilitation centres. It houses more than 2,000 species, including elephants, rhinos, leopards, big cats, and other endangered wildlife. The facility integrates cutting-edge veterinary science, conservation technology, research-driven rehabilitation, and collaborations with global wildlife experts.
Experts worldwide have praised Vantara for establishing a new benchmark in large-scale, science-led animal conservation, particularly in a region where such holistic models were previously rare.
Ambani’s Vision Rooted in Indian Ethos
In his acceptance speech, Anant Ambani expressed gratitude and connected the honour to India’s cultural philosophy:
“This recognition reaffirms a timeless principle—sarva bhuta hita, the well-being of all beings. Animals teach us humility and trust. Through Vantara, our purpose is to give every life dignity, care, and hope, guided by the spirit of seva. Conservation is not for tomorrow; it is a shared dharma we must uphold today.”
A Legacy of Distinguished Awardees
The Global Humanitarian Award, considered one of the highest honours in animal welfare, has previously been awarded to a select group of global icons, including Hollywood legends Shirley MacLaine, John Wayne, and Betty White, as well as U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton.
Ambani now joins this exclusive list, underscoring the global impact of his work.
India’s Rising Leadership in Conservation
Ambani’s recognition also signals India’s growing influence in global conservation dialogues. Initiatives like Vantara highlight the country’s capacity to lead solutions for the ongoing global wildlife crisis through a mix of traditional ethos and advanced scientific approaches.
Founded in 1877, the American Humane Society and its global arm certify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals every year across various industries. By honouring Ambani, the organisation has affirmed Vantara’s transformation into a model sanctuary of scale, compassion, and innovation.
The award marks a milestone not just for Anant Ambani but for India’s broader commitment to safeguarding the planet’s most vulnerable creatures.
