Vantara Hosts Global Wildlife Conservation Conference in Jamnagar
The Vantara-hosted EARAZA Conference connects wildlife experts globally for conservation efforts.
JAMNAGAR: The Vantara organization recently convened the annual conference of the Eurasian Regional Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EARAZA) from October 26 to 29, 2026. This significant event attracted over 150 leaders, veterinary professionals, scientists, and conservationists hailing from 98 organizations across 30 nations, including 29 zoological institutions based in India.
Fostering Global Collaboration
Centered around the theme of ‘Strengthening Global Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation,’ the conference aimed to amplify shared knowledge in support of sustainable cross-border conservation actions.
The opening ceremony set an inspiring tone with a performance by the acclaimed composer and environmental advocate, Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy Award winner. Following this moving presentation, the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony was conducted by esteemed speakers including Svetlana Akulova, President of EARAZA; Prof. Raman Sukumar from the Indian Institute of Science; and Dr. V. Clement Ben, Member Secretary of the Central Zoo Authority.
A Commitment to Open Collaboration
As the host, Vivaan Karani, the CEO of Vantara, took the opportunity to welcome attendees enthusiastically. He announced an initiative to offer the ANTZ Software Platform free of charge for one year to all EARAZA members. This platform serves as a secure cloud-based system designed to facilitate the management of zoological institutions and promote an Open Data Exchange for information-sharing amongst members.
“Vantara means the ‘Star of the Forest,’” said Karani. “Yet, one star alone cannot light up the entire sky. It’s through collective efforts that we can illuminate the path forward. We are here not only to share what we have created but to learn from you, collaborate, and advance our shared mission.”
Data and Conservation: A Global Vision
In her address, Akulova emphasized the importance of transcending national borders in conservation efforts. She stated, “Today’s conservation initiatives must embrace an international scope. By pooling data, expertise, and responsibilities, every programme gains strength. This conference marks a critical step toward cultivating our network into a true partnership.”
The conference agenda showcased a diverse range of topics illustrating modern conservation approaches. Species coordinators discussed collaborative programs affecting various habitats, from the far-reaching forests in the Russian Far East to the pristine Arctic ice. Notable species such as the Amur tiger, Oriental stork, Blakiston’s eagle-owl, and the great bustard were central themes, alongside lesser-known projects focused on Boiga snakes and the reintroduction of long-eared hedgehogs.
In her presentation, Akulova articulated a vision for establishing a global data infrastructure tailored for biodiversity conservation. This innovative framework aims to ensure that information acquired by one institution can significantly influence conservation strategies at multiple levels around the globe.
