Rescued Sumatran Baby Orangutan Repatriated from India to Indonesia
An Indian-rescued Sumatran baby orangutan has been successfully repatriated to Indonesia following joint CITES wildlife coordination.
POLICY WIRE — Jakarta, Indonesia — A young Sumatran orangutan rescued within India back in 2024 was successfully returned to Indonesia on Monday, October 19, 2026. This transfer was made possible through collaborative efforts between the CITES Management Authorities and wildlife officials from both nations, according to an official announcement from the Indian Embassy.
Having departed from Gujarat, the young primate landed at Kualanamu International Airport in Medan. Representatives from the Consulate General of India were present to take part in a welcome ceremony hosted by Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry.
Ever since its initial rescue, Indian wildlife management teams have provided the animal with specialized veterinary treatment and suitable environmental facilities. The Indian mission in Jakarta highlighted that the entire operation strictly adhered to the requirements and protocols outlined by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
As a gesture of goodwill, the government of India chose to waive all financial expenses associated with the upkeep and medical care of the primate prior to its journey home. The diplomatic mission noted that this successful transfer highlights the robust bilateral partnership between India and Indonesia alongside a mutual dedication to wildlife conservation.
Meanwhile, preparations are already in motion to return five additional juvenile orangutans that were discovered and rescued in Odisha during September. Finalizing this upcoming transfer depends on verifying their exact species and geographical origin, as well as finishing the required administrative processes.
To help facilitate these ongoing efforts, the Indian Embassy is actively arranging for Indonesian wildlife specialists from the Ministry of Forestry to travel to India in November of this year. These visiting experts will provide critical assistance with the repatriation procedures.
At present, the five recently rescued animals are residing at the Nandankanan Zoological Park located in Bhubaneswar, where they continue to receive ongoing medical attention and dedicated care.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
