Guwahati, Aug. 19 -- Zoo-cum-rescue centre Vantara's proposal to set up three wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centres in Assam, including one dedicated exclusively to the welfare of Asian elephants, has sparked strong reactions from wildlife activists and conservationists in the state, who have raised concerns over animal transfers, transparency, veterinary capacity, and the growing role of private entities in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation work.

The Reliance-backed facility, based in Jamnagar, Gujarat, made the offer in a letter to the Assam Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department dated August 12. The state's Environment and Forest Minister has said the proposal is currently being "examined."

Vantara is operated by Ana...