New Delhi: A baby orangutan of Sumatran origin, which was rescued in India in 2024, was sent back to Indonesia on Monday following coordinated efforts by wildlife authorities in both countries, the Indian Embassy announced.
The repatriation was successfully coordinated by the agencies responsible for implementing the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, or CITES, in India and Indonesia.
The young animal was repatriated from the state of Gujarat and touched down at Kualanamu International Airport in Medan on Monday. Officials representing the Consulate General of India were present at a welcoming reception organized by Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry.
Ever since its initial rescue, the primate had been provided with proper veterinary care and maintained in suitable habitat facilities by Indian wildlife authorities. The Indian diplomatic mission in Jakarta noted in an official statement that the transfer was carried out strictly in accordance with established procedures. As a special gesture of goodwill, the Indian government chose to waive all expenses incurred for the animal's upkeep and maintenance prior to its journey home.
According to the mission, this successful operation underscores the strong bilateral relationship between India and Indonesia, alongside their mutual dedication to preserving endangered wildlife. Meanwhile, preparations are underway to return five other young orangutans that were rescued in the state of Odisha in September. That particular transfer remains dependent on confirming the exact species and geographic origin of the animals, as well as finishing all mandatory legal and administrative procedures.
To help expedite this next phase, the Indian Embassy is organizing a November visit to India for wildlife experts from Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry. The five animals currently awaiting repatriation are being housed and monitored at the Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar, where they continue to receive professional veterinary attention.