THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

GUWAHATI, AUGUST 6, 2026

As Assam continues to battle one of the most devastating flood seasons in recent years, with lives, livelihoods, and wildlife under immense threat, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has lauded Anant Ambani, Executive Director of Reliance Industries Limited and founder of the Vantara Foundation, for extending crucial support to the state’s animal rescue efforts. Recognising the often-overlooked suffering of wildlife during natural disasters, the Chief Minister expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Vantara Foundation for deploying its specialised wildlife rescue teams and ambulance fleet to work alongside the Assam Forest Department in rescuing and treating flood-affected domestic and wild animals.

Sharing his appreciation in a post on social media platform X, Sarma highlighted the silent crisis unfolding amid the floods, where countless animals have become victims of the disaster. Emphasising the devastating impact on Assam’s rich biodiversity, he said, “One of the lesser discussed yet deeply distressing consequences of the Assam Floods has been the devastation inflicted on our animals and wildlife.”

The Chief Minister revealed that the floods have severely affected more than 10 lakh livestock across the state. In addition, hundreds of wild animals have reportedly been swept away by raging floodwaters, while many others remain stranded, injured, or missing. Although the Assam Forest Department has been working tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate affected animals, Sarma acknowledged that the unprecedented scale of the crisis has created an urgent need for additional expertise and resources.

Recognising the timely intervention of the Vantara Foundation, Sarma praised the organisation for stepping forward during one of Assam’s most challenging times. He said, “I am grateful to the Vantara Foundation for stepping forward by placing its specialised wildlife rescue teams and ambulance fleet under the command of our Forest Department.” The partnership is expected to significantly strengthen ongoing rescue and rehabilitation operations for both livestock and wildlife impacted by the floods.

The Chief Minister also underlined the importance of giving greater attention to animal welfare during natural disasters, noting that such efforts often remain overshadowed by the broader humanitarian crisis. Stressing the need to recognise those contributing to this vital cause, he stated, “Animal rescue during natural disasters often does not receive the attention it deserves. We deeply value those who have chosen to stand for this cause.”

Sarma extended his sincere appreciation to Anant Ambani for spearheading the humanitarian initiative through the Vantara Foundation, describing the support as a compassionate contribution during the ongoing flood emergency. “My sincere gratitude to Shri Anant Ambani for this thoughtful and compassionate gesture,” he said.

Meanwhile, Assam’s flood situation continues to remain grim. On Wednesday, six more people lost their lives due to flooding, taking the death toll during the current monsoon season to 95. The increasing number of fatalities reflects the severity of the crisis as floodwaters continue to inundate several districts across the state.