The Global Humane Society, the international branch of the American Humane Society, has awarded Anant Ambani, founder of the Vantara Conservation Center, the Global Humanitarian Award for animal welfare.
He is the youngest and first Asian to receive this prestigious international distinction.
This award, considered one of the highest global accolades for animal welfare, recognizes Mr. Ambani’s transformative role in protecting endangered species and establishing scientific conservation programs.
His Vantara initiative, fully Global Humane Certified™, is described as a groundbreaking model of large-scale rescue, rehabilitation, and preservation.
For Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of Global Humane Society, this distinction highlights a forward-thinking vision.
“The fact that Vantara has received the Global Humane Certified™ distinction reflects not only excellence in care, but also a deep dedication to giving each animal dignity, healing and hope,” she said, praising a project that “has set a new benchmark for what modern animal welfare can look like.”
During the ceremony, Anant Ambani dedicated the award to a principle of universal compassion.
“I thank the Global Humane Society for this honor. For me, it reaffirms a timeless principle, sarva bhuta hita, the well-being of all beings,” he stated.
And he added, “Animals teach us balance, humility, and trust.”
The prize is reserved for individuals who have profoundly influenced animal welfare worldwide.
Past recipients include Shirley MacLaine, John Wayne, Betty White, and US Presidents John F. Kennedy and Bill Clinton.
The recognition awarded to Vantara is based on a rigorous independent audit and the unique combination of ex situ and in situ actions, enabling both the rescue of vulnerable animals and the restoration of natural ecosystems.
The center also conducts research and reintroduction programs aimed at strengthening global biodiversity.
Underlining the project’s impact, Dr. Ganzert emphasized its exceptional nature:
“Vantara represents one of the most extraordinary commitments to animal welfare anywhere in the world… it’s more than a rescue center, it’s a healing sanctuary,” she added.
The ceremony brought together several major figures in the sector, including Dr. Jon Paul Rodriguez (IUCN), Matt James (Colossal Biosciences), William Street (Knoxville Zoo) and Thomas Schmid (Columbus Zoo), as well as internationally renowned Indian specialists.
