Newcastle University says Anant Ambani didn
Newcastle University has responded to the criticism of the professorship conferred on Anant Ambani in the Guardian and other newspapers by making it clear that billionaire businessman Mukesh Ambanis 31-year-old son did not pay for the honour. This new declaration appears to neutralise much of the criticism levelled against Anant. It perhaps also closes the door to money changing hands in the future. Most UK universities are financially in dire straits and are looking to India as part of the solution. A number have opened or are considering opening physical campuses in India. A spokesperson for Newcastle University said: We can confirm that the University hasnt received a donation from Anant Ambani or a company affiliated with him. The spokesperson added: The award of a Professorship of Practice recognises Mr Ambanis contributions to conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare and environmental stewardship through his work with Vantara, a wildlife rescue and conservation initiative, and as the executive lead for the Reliance Groups transition toward a green energy future. It is understood that his role does not confer any qualifications or have any involvement in setting the academic direction of Newcastle University. The Guardian claimed Newcastle was facing a backlash from conservationists. This has already been reported in Eastern Eye. The paper said the universitys announcement was met with incredulity and derision from academic staff and Indian and international conservationists and environmentalists. Prof Lyla Mehta, the head of the climate, environment and sustainability department at the University of Sussexs Institute of Development Studies, told the paper that as public funding for universities falls, there is a real danger that billionaire and corporate money begins to shape academia. She said: Universities are supposed to be places that question power and hold corporations to account, not give them academic legitimacy. Lorne Stockman, a research co-director at Oil Change International, said: At a time when the climate crisis demands an urgent phaseout of oil and gas, we must demand our publicly funded institutions do better. The paper also referred to the Indian prime ministers links with the Ambanis: Ambani is the son of Indias richest person, Mukesh Ambani, who made his fortune primarily in oil and gas, owns the worlds largest oil refinery and has close ties with the ruling Bharatiya Janata party (BJP). Mukesh Ambani has enthusiastically praised BJP policies, and firms linked to his Reliance conglomerate have recently made significant donations to the party. The prime minister, Narendra Modi, attended Anant Ambanis lavish 2024 wedding in Mumbai. Anant Amabani, 31, who is leads on renewable energy on the Reliance Groups executive board and is worth an estimated 90bn, has set up Vantara, a 1,400-hectare (3,500-acre) private zoo near the familys oil refining facilities in Gujarat, which reportedly has more than 150,000 animals including 200 lions, 250 leopards and 900 crocodiles, and where he hosted his opulent pre-wedding celebrations attended by celebrity guests and politicians. Conservation groups have previously raised questions about how some of the animals were sourced, given many were endangered species. Vantara has never been found guilty of any wrongdoing. Modi is not short of supporters in the UK, one of whom, the Tory businessman Lord Rami Ranger said: This is just jealousy. These people want to talk India down. The Ambanis have taken India to the next level. The UK-India trade deal is good for both countries. This professorship will raise the international profile of Newcastle University and attract more Indian students. They dont see the broader picture. Mukesh Ambani owns Hamleys in Regent Street, probably the biggest toyshop in the world, and a 300-acre Stoke Park estate in Buckinghamshire. Last years Pink Ball at the British Museum, an answer to the Met Gala in New York, raised 2.5m for greater collaboration with India with the help of Mukesh Ambanis wife and daughter, Nita and Isha Ambani. Another Indian entrepreneur, Gautam Adani, is sponsoring the Adani Green Energy Gallery at the Science Museum in London on a long-term basis. In procession after the ceremony, Anant Ambani with (l) Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and (r) Imtiaz Dharker, Chancellor Eastern Eye In its original announcement, Newcastle University said: Mr Anant Ambani, known for his work in conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship received the honour in recognition of his significant contributions to advancing a more sustainable future, in a ceremony in the Universitys historic Kings Hall. Professor Ambani founded Vantara, a 3,500-acre wildlife rescue and conservation initiative in Jamnagar district, Gujarat, India, which focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and protection of abused, injured, and endangered animals from all over the world. Work on the rehabilitation of elephants was recognised with the prestigious Prani Mitra National Award, Indias highest recognition for corporate contribution to animal welfare. Professor Ambani became the youngest and first Asian recipient of the Global Humane Award, a prestigious recognition for leadership in evidence-based welfare programs, science-led conservation initiatives and sustained efforts to protect vulnerable species worldwide Work at Vantara closely aligns with the Universitys world-leading research on global conservation and biodiversity targets, as well as inter-disciplinary expertise including in data visualisation and analysis. The ceremony celebrated a shared commitment to environmental responsibility and global impact. The Professorship was conferred in a traditional ceremony presided over by the University Chancellor, Imtiaz Dharker, and attended by his wife Mrs Radhika Ambani alongside leading figures in the world of business, conservation and academia. Imtiaz, a distinguished poet and mother of the actress Ayesha Dharker, is finishing a seven-year stint as chancellor. Ayesha will star in The Jungle Book at the National Theatre in November. On receiving the honour, Anant delivered a lecture called The road to a sustainable tomorrow: As humanity confronts a different set of global challenges, I believe conservation and sustainability must become the next great movement one that transcends nations, generations and differences. It is in that spirit that I accept this honour not simply as a recognition of past work, but as a responsibility to do more: to help build a future in which people and nature thrive together, on the one planet we all call home. Speaking before the ceremony, Anant remarked: Everyone who graduates from here has the potential to change the world in some way. I am so honoured to be here at the steps of Newcastle University where the honourable and most legendary Martin Luther King stood. Sustainability and protecting a world with kindness and compassion is the most required. I think Newcastle has the potential to give back to society by getting the students to be the most compassionate students ever. Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, said: We are facing a global challenge, and it is critical that we act with urgency to reverse biodiversity decline and enable nature's recovery. Achieving this requires bold leadership, innovation and collaboration across sectors. Professor Ambani is demonstrating exactly this kind of leadership, driving forward ambitious solutions that support the restoration of healthy, resilient ecosystems for future generations. I am delighted to welcome Professor Ambani into Newcastle University. Sustainability is one of the foundations on which our institution is built, underpinning and strengthening our core activities in education, research and engagement. Global leaders such as Professor Ambani are helping to redefine what is possible, bringing together sustainability, technology and business transformation to deliver meaningful impact for society and address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. The ceremony was held in Kings Hall within the historic Armstrong Building, which in 1967 was the setting for Dr Martin Luther King Jr receiving his honorary doctorate Newcastle University being the only UK university to honour him in his lifetime. Pictured in front of the statue of Dr Martin Luther King Jr at Newcastle University (l-r) Radhika Ambani; Anant Ambani; Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President, Newcastle University ; Ms Sanjana Medipally, Acting Head of International Relations and Partnerships, Newcastle University; and Professor Stephanie Glendinning, Pro-Vice -Chancellor, Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, Newcastle University. Eastern Eye Newcastle also said that beyond his wildlife conservation work, Anant is an Executive Director of Reliance Industries and a key force behind the groups transition toward a new energy future, advancing initiatives in solar manufacturing, green hydrogen, circular materials, carbon capture, clean fuels, and next-generation energy technologies. His leadership supports Reliances ambitious vision of becoming a Net Carbon Zero enterprise by 2035 one of the largest sustainability transitions being undertaken by any company globally. It added: Professor Ambanis vision resonates strongly with Newcastle Universitys own commitment to advancing a more sustainable future. Through pioneering research and education in energy transitions, clean energy systems and electrification, the University is helping to develop the technologies, evidence and skilled workforce needed to support the global shift to a low-carbon economy. These shared ambitions demonstrate the value of collaboration between industry and academia in addressing some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges. Professor Stephanie Glendinning, the universitys Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, commented: Having recently visited Vantara and witnessed first-hand the extraordinary work being undertaken there, I was both excited and deeply honoured that Professor Ambani visited us in Newcastle University. We share a vision rooted in a profound respect for nature and for all living beings. By bringing together our knowledge, experience and commitment to service, we have an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to some of the world's most pressing challenges: food and water security, biodiversity loss, and animal welfare. Inspired by the understanding that all life is interconnected, we believe that through collaboration, compassion and innovation, we can help bring about transformative change for the benefit of both people and the wider living world. In the closing speech to the ceremony, the Honorary consul General of India (Newcastle), J M Meenu Malhotra, said: The bond between the United Kingdom and India is among the deepest and most enduring in the world a partnership of history, of family, of trade, and of shared ambition. Here in the North East, and at this University, that partnership is no abstraction. It lives in the students who travel between our two countries, in the research that crosses our borders, and in occasions such as this one. The challenges facing our environment respect no borders, and no single nation, however great, can meet them alone. But the United Kingdom and India, working side by side - in science, in enterprise, and in conscience - can help to light that road for others to follow. Sanjana Medipally, the universitys Strategic Partnerships Lead for India, said: Having seen Vantaras work first-hand, Ive been struck by how closely it mirrors Newcastle Universitys own commitment to conservation and a sustainable future. This partnership has been a privilege to build, and I look forward to helping it grow into something of lasting value for both our countries.
27 global wildlife organisations press Vantara to end animal imports permanently
Guwahati: More than two dozen international wildlife conservation and animal welfare organisations have urged Vantara, the private zoo funded by Reliance Industries in Jamnagar, Gujarat, to permanently end wild animal imports and strengthen safeguards around the acquisition of animals. In an open letter dated September 22, the organisations also called for greater transparency, independent oversight [] The post 27 global wildlife organisations press Vantara to end animal imports permanently appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Over 2,500 People Benefit from Health and Nutrition Activities in Jamnagar
A month-long health initiative in Jamnagar has engaged over 2,500 participants, promoting Ayurveda and wellness through various programs. Over 2,500 People Benefit from Health and Nutrition Activities in Jamnagar
From sanitation workers to organ donation: Gujarats Ganeshotsav takes a community focus
Digital Desk | Surat, Sep 14 (IANS) Ganeshotsav celebrations in parts of Gujarat took a community-focussed turn this year, with sanitation workers felicitated in Surat, an appeal for organ donation made during the festival and traditional celebrations held in Jamnagar and Vadodara. At the Kamrej Assembly Karmayog Office in Surat, the idol of Lord Ganesh was installed in the presence of state Health Minister Praful Pansheriya and other officials after prayers and an 'aarti'. Sanitation workers and their families, who work through the night to keep the city clean, were specially felicitated during the event, while the first 'aarti' was performed by members of the sanitation worker families. Pansheriya said sanitation staff worked through the night to keep Surat clean and their contribution was important in maintaining cleanliness in the city and across the state. He called for people to worship together and conveyed a message of social harmony, saying that there should be no distinction between people as big or small. The event was organised under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, as part of programmes marking 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modis governance and public service journey. Pansheriya outlined government efforts to take public service and welfare initiatives to the people and prayed for the welfare, health and prosperity of citizens. He also urged people to ensure that government welfare and healthcare schemes reached those who needed them and could benefit from them. Linking the festival with a social cause, Pansheriya appealed to people to encourage organ donation during Ganeshotsav so that those awaiting transplants could receive a new lease of life. He called for greater public awareness and efforts to increase organ donation. Leaders and workers from the Kamrej Assembly constituency, along with a large number of people, attended the event, officials said. In Jamnagar, the Brahma Social Group organised the Open Saurashtra Modak Competition for the 18th consecutive year on Ganesh Chaturthi. A total of 44 participants competed across the children, women, men and senior citizen categories. The event promoted traditional, homemade and nutritious food while discouraging dependence on junk food. In Vadodara, Lord Ganpati was brought to the Laxmi Vilas Palace as part of the traditional procession of the royal family. The idol was prepared according to traditional practices and installed at the palace following rituals and prayers.
Ayurveda and Microbiome Research Highlighted in ITRA Jamnagar Workshop
A three-day workshop on microbiome research and Ayurveda was held at ITRA Jamnagar, focusing on health and wellness advancements. Ayurveda and Microbiome Research Highlighted in ITRA Jamnagar Workshop
Eco-Friendly Ganesh Idols Celebrate Festivals in Prayagraj and Jamnagar
Eco-friendly Ganesh idols made from cow dung are gaining popularity in Prayagraj and Jamnagar, promoting environmental conservation. Eco-Friendly Ganesh Idols Celebrate Festivals in Prayagraj and Jamnagar
Delhi Assembly, Sardar Patel Vidyalaya, several govt offices receive bomb threats; checking on
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) The Delhi Assembly, Sardar Patel Vidyalaya (SPV) and several government establishments in the national capital received bomb threats through email on Tuesday, officials said, prompting security agencies to immediately activate standard operating procedures and launch extensive checks at the affected locations. The threats were reported during the morning hours, following which security agencies and emergency response teams were rushed to the locations as a precautionary measure. Officials said the areas were secured and detailed anti-sabotage checks were initiated to rule out any possible security threat. Teams from the Delhi Police, bomb detection and disposal squads, dog units, and the Delhi Fire Services reached the locations and cordoned off the concerned areas as part of the standard security protocol followed after receipt of a bomb threat. So far, nothing suspicious has been found at any of the locations searched by the security teams, officials said. The premises are being checked thoroughly, and authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as part of the precautionary arrangements. Further investigation into the email and the source of the threat is underway. The latest threat has come amid existing security concerns surrounding the Delhi Assembly, which has received similar bomb threats in the past. Earlier, on August 14, multiple locations in Delhi, including the Delhi High Court, had received bomb threats, prompting heightened security arrangements in the national capital ahead of Independence Day. The Delhi High Court had received the threat through email, with the message warning of an alleged blast at the court at 2.11 p.m. on August 15. The email was titled 'BOMB Blast Delhi High Court @ 2:11PM' and specifically mentioned the timing of the purported explosion. The same email had also threatened explosions at district courts in Delhi at 3:11 p.m. on August 15, adding to security concerns in the national capital ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. In addition to the High Court, five other locations had received bomb threats through phone calls. These included Jamnagar House, Jhandewalan Building, the MB Road Saket office, Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office in Delhi Cantonment.
Unique Oil Painting of Lord Krishna by Muslim Artist in Jamnagar for Janmashtami
Jamnagar, September 3: On the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami, Kumbhiya Fakhruddin Ali, known as KF Ali, has created a remarkable oil painting depicting Lord Krishnas devotion and the spirit of the festival. This artwork, crafted over the last 8 to 10 days, is not just a blend of colors and lines but a heartfelt artistic ... Read more Unique Oil Painting of Lord Krishna by Muslim Artist in Jamnagar for Janmashtami
Leopard Veeru Joins SAILs IG Park Zoo In Rourkela
The leopard, named Veeru, reached Rourkela on August 28 after travelling nearly 2,400 km by road from Jamnagar
Nuapada Love Affair Row Sparks Gunfire, Four Arrested in Gujarat
Koman police arrested four accused from Jamnagar, Gujarat, in connection with a gunfire incident at Paer village of Nuapada district. The arrests follow allegations that the shooting stemmed from a dispute over a love affair. Police seized a pistol, one live bullet, and an empty shell from the accused. The incident, which occurred on July [] The post Nuapada Love Affair Row Sparks Gunfire, Four Arrested in Gujarat appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Gujarat govt approves Machhu-2 reservoir supply to Dwarka, Jamnagar
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PM Modi Engages Youth in Khelo India Dialogue in Jamnagar
New Delhi, August 27: The Indian governments Ministry of Sports, in collaboration with My India, organized the Khelo India Dialogue program across the nation. A special event took place at DKV Arts College in Jamnagar, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual interaction with athletes and youth. The primary aim of the program is ... Read more PM Modi Engages Youth in Khelo India Dialogue in Jamnagar
Gujarat's Khijadiya Sanctuary Confirmed As Key Black-Necked Stork Site
A comprehensive study by the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation has confirmed that the Ramsar-designated Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary in Jamnagar serves as a critical breeding sanctuary for the Black-necked Stork.
Elephant 'Jaymoti' rescued from floods airlifted, treated at Anant Ambani's Vantara
53-year-old elephant Joymoti, injured in the flood, is being brought to Vantara in Jamnagar for better treatment. Due to serious wounds in many parts of the body and injury in the eye, the treatment will be done under the supervision of expert veterinarians.Injured elephant Joymoti will...
FLOOD-RESCUED ELEPHANT JOYMOTI AIRLIFTED TO VANTARA FOR SPECIALISED HOSPITAL CARE
53-year-old elephant rescued from floodwaters in Assam to receive specialised treatment for multiple chronic and severe injuries Jamnagar, Gujarat: Joymoti, a 53-year-old female elephant rescued from the devastating floods in Nagaland and Assam in July, is being airlifted to Vantara, Jamnagar, for immediate and specialised veterinary treatment. Joymoti was swept away by floodwaters in Nagaland []
A 53-year-old female elephant was airlifted to Vantara's facility in Gujarat's Jamnagar for immediate and specialised veterinary treatment after being rescued from the devastating floods in Nagaland and Assam in July. The elephant, Joymoti, was swept...
Bajel Projects JV wins bid for inter-state transmission project
AnantGrid Projects One (AGPOPL) a company jointly owned by Bajel Projects (26%) and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (74%) has received a Letter of Intent (LoI) from PFC Consulting (PFCCL) declaring it the successful bidder for Inter State transmission scheme, Common Transmission System for evacuation of power from Lakadia (Phase-II: 7.5GW), Jam Khambhaliya (Phase-II: 5.5GW) and Jamnagar (Phase-I: 1GW) - Part-A.
What Does It Take to Restore a 2,600 sq. km Grassland in Kutch?
The relocation of 20 blackbucks from the Greens Zoological, Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre (GZRRC) in Jamnagar to Banni, following approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), is one part of this larger effort.
PM Modi Announces Free Online Coaching, Students and Parents Express Joy
Jamnagar, August 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made several significant announcements on Independence Day, including the introduction of free online coaching for students and a plan to train youth in artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative has sparked enthusiasm among students, parents, and educators alike. Student Kavya Prasad welcomed the announcement, stating that PM Modis focus ... Read more PM Modi Announces Free Online Coaching, Students and Parents Express Joy
After a decade, zebras will again delight visitors to the Thiruvananthapuram zoo
The zebras, a male and a female aged five and three, are being brought from Vantara at Jamnagar in Gujarat. In exchange, a king cobra and a lion-tailed macaque will be handed over.
After a decade, zebras will again delight visitors to the Thiruvananthapuram zoo
The zebras, a male and a female aged five and three, are being brought from Vantara at Jamnagar in Gujarat. In exchange, a king cobra and a lion-tailed macaque will be handed over.
India's Russian crude imports hit record for second straight month
India's Russian crude oil imports reached a record in July, increasing by 2.1 percent. This surge was primarily fueled by smaller import terminals across the country. Larger terminals like Jamnagar saw stable volumes, while Paradip experienced a decline. India remains a significant buyer of Russian fossil fuels, second only to China. This trend highlights India's continued reliance on discounted Russian energy supplies.
Man working in Australia for two years found buried in Jamnagar; wife, two others held
As the woman did not provide her husbands Australian address despite repeated requests, the family of his cousin who wanted to go to Australia grew suspicious and registered a police complaint.
Gujarat Police Seizes Illegal Liquor Worth 77.71 Lakhs in Jamnagar
Jamnagar, July 29: The Gujarat Polices State Monitoring Cell (SMC) has confiscated illegal Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and beer worth 77.71 lakhs during a raid in Jamnagar district. The total estimated value of the seized goods exceeds 1 crore. Three individuals have been arrested in connection with this operation, while 13 others linked to ... Read more Gujarat Police Seizes Illegal Liquor Worth 77.71 Lakhs in Jamnagar
Heavy Monsoon Rains Batter Gujarat, Maharashtra
In Gujarat's Jamnagar district, the Dhrol area bore the brunt of the onslaught, with incessant downpours inundating multiple arterial roads
Reliance Intelligence to make AI dramatically more affordable in India by 2030: Akash Ambani
Reliance aims to revolutionize AI accessibility in India, mirroring its Jio data success. By decade's end, the company plans to make AI dramatically more affordable for every Indian through its new Reliance Intelligence unit. A massive AI infrastructure project in Jamnagar, powered by clean energy, will be operational by 2026, positioning India as a global AI player.
Gujarat Weather Report: The India Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rain and thundershowers across Gujarat for the next seven days. Initially, North, Central, and South Gujarat will see activity, shifting primarily to South Gujarat later in the week. Most other districts are expected to remain dry.
Jamnagar Home Guards Prepare 12,000 Seed Balls to Promote Environmental Conservation
Jamnagar, June 14: In celebration of Prime Minister Narendra Modis 12 years of leadership, the Jamnagar district Home Guards have initiated a commendable project aimed at environmental conservation and the green revolution. The Home Guards have successfully created over 12,000 seed balls, sending a strong message for environmental enhancement. These seed balls contain seeds from ... Read more Jamnagar Home Guards Prepare 12,000 Seed Balls to Promote Environmental Conservation
Meta Joins Hands With Reliance To Set Up AI-Data Centre in Jamnagar
Reliance will develop a 168-megawatt data centre to be delivered within two years, while Meta will lease capacity from the facility
India's fuel exports fall to lowest since 2022 amid refinery maintenance, domestic demand
India's refined fuel exports dropped significantly in May, reaching their lowest point since October 2022. Refinery maintenance, particularly at Reliance Industries' Jamnagar complex, reduced processing. Refiners also prioritized domestic demand for LPG, cutting petrol and diesel output for export. Favorable domestic sales and taxes on exports further influenced this trend. India's refined product trade is adapting to these changing dynamics.
Tiffany Trump India visit: Leaves for Jamnagar, Gujarat after Jaisalmer visit
Tiffany Trump and Michael Boulos have left Jaisalmer for Jamnagar in Gujarat. The couple explored the Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They experienced traditional Rajasthani hospitality at Suryagarh hotel. Folk artists performed Ghoomar and other cultural programs. They also attended a cultural evening with folk and Sufi music and traditional dances.
