A critically ill elephant calf named Maya has been airlifted from Kerala to a specialized medical facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat, in a bid to provide life-saving veterinary intervention. The operation, initiated by Anant Ambani, the founder of the Vantara organization, was carried out on November 5, 2026. The transfer was officially sanctioned by the Chief Wildlife Warden of Kerala, Dr. P. Pugazhendi, following a recommendation from a medical board and expert veterinary consultants.
Maya’s journey began in April 2025, when she was discovered alone and dehydrated near a riverbank in the Kaprikkad area of the Malayattoor Division. Without her mother or access to essential early nutrition, the calf required intensive care from the outset. For over 18 months, Assistant Forest Veterinary Officer Dr. Binoy C. Babu and a dedicated team of caregivers provided around-the-clock nursing, helping the calf survive despite her frail start.
However, the calf's condition took a turn for the worse in July 2026, when she slipped while playing, resulting in an injury to her shoulder. Despite receiving physiotherapy, splints, and nutritional supplements, her skeletal structure grew increasingly fragile. By late October 2026, Maya had lost the ability to stand, suffering from fractures in both front legs, pressure sores, and a persistent chest infection. Her health had reached a critical threshold, prompting authorities to seek higher-level medical expertise.
The decision to move the calf followed consultations involving Padma Shri Dr. Kushal Konwar Sarma, an eminent elephant veterinarian and advisor to Vantara, and Dr. Yaduraj Khadpekar, the head veterinarian at Vantara’s Elephant Care Centre. Experts identified a potential parathyroid-related disorder contributing to her bone fragility. The medical board determined that the intensive care infrastructure at Vantara—which includes advanced diagnostic equipment, hydraulic lifting support, and hydrotherapy—offered the best hope for her recovery.
During the life-support-equipped flight to Jamnagar, Maya was accompanied by a specialized team of Vantara veterinarians, paravets, and caregivers. Dr. Binoy C. Babu and her primary caregiver, Nikhil Babu, also traveled with her to ensure continuity of care and comfort during the transition. Vantara officials have emphasized that while the organization is managing the treatment, the state of Kerala retains administrative jurisdiction over the elephant.
Reflecting on the mission, Vivaan Karani, CEO of Vantara, noted the resilience the calf has demonstrated throughout her life. He stated that the team remains committed to staying by her side throughout the treatment process and requested public support for her recovery. The organization has confirmed that once Maya completes her rehabilitation and regains sufficient health, they will facilitate her safe return to Abhayaranyam in Kerala.
While the prognosis for the calf remains uncertain due to the severity of her injuries, the collaborative effort between state authorities and private veterinary experts marks a significant attempt to save the animal. The case highlights the complex challenges involved in managing wildlife rehabilitation, particularly when underlying metabolic conditions require specialized medical diagnostics not readily available in standard forest division facilities. For now, the focus remains on pain management and stabilizing her condition through round-the-clock monitoring.
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