India repatriates rescued Sumatran baby orangutan to Indonesia

Rescued Sumatran orangutan returned to Medan

India has repatriated a rescued baby Sumatran orangutan to Indonesia following two years of specialized veterinary care and international diplomatic coordination.

The young primate, rescued in Gujarat in 2024, arrived at Kualanamu International Airport in Medan on Monday. Officials from the Consulate General of India and Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry attended a formal reception upon its arrival. In a gesture reflecting close bilateral ties and environmental stewardship, the Indian government waived all cost recoveries for the animal's care, housing, and medical treatment accrued prior to its return.

Diplomacy and wildlife conservation

The Indian Embassy in Jakarta confirmed that the repatriation was executed in full compliance with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Management authorities from both countries collaborated closely to meet all diplomatic and biosecurity protocols.

Since its rescue, Indian wildlife authorities provided custom habitat facilities and continuous clinical supervision to ensure the young animal recovered fully and remained fit for long-distance travel. The successful operation highlights India's institutional capacity in exotic animal rehabilitation and its strict enforcement against illicit international wildlife trade.

Five more orangutans preparing for return in Odisha

Following the successful repatriation of the Gujarat primate, authorities have initiated procedures to return five additional young orangutans rescued in Odisha in September 2026. These five primates are currently housed at the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar, where they are receiving comprehensive veterinary care.

To accelerate the return of the Odisha group, the Indian Embassy is facilitating a visit by Indonesian wildlife specialists from the Ministry of Forestry to Bhubaneswar in November. The visiting team will assist Indian authorities with species confirmation, origin verification, and final CITES clearance before the animals are flown back to Indonesia.