Ailing elephant calf Maya airlifted from Keralam to Vantara for specialised treatment
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An 18-month-old elephant calf, Maya, who is suffering from multiple fractures and extremely brittle bones, is being transferred from Keralam's Abhayaranyam to Vantara in Jamnagar, Gujarat, for specialised medical care.
Kerala Chief Wildlife Warden Dr P Pugazhendi ordered the transfer on November 5, following consultations with veterinary experts on the calf's condition and possible treatment options.
Maya was rescued as a newborn on April 19, 2025, after being found abandoned near Kaprikkad in the Malayattoor Forest Division. She was brought to Abhayaranyam after her herd left her behind while crossing a river. She had no sucking reflex. Forest Department staff hand-reared the calf and provided round-the-clock care.
In July 2026, Maya injured her right shoulder after slipping while playing. Despite treatment, physiotherapy and nutritional supplements, her condition deteriorated. By late October, she had multiple fractures, severely weakened bones and a chest infection, and was unable to stand.
A Medical Board had recommended euthanasia on October 29, citing the poor prognosis and the likelihood of further suffering.
However, following consultations with elephant veterinarian Dr Kushal Konwar Sarma and Vantara's veterinary team, experts identified a possible parathyroid-related disorder that may respond to treatment.
They recommended transferring Maya to Vantara for intensive care before considering euthenasia.
Vantara has arranged an airlift with life-support systems and continuous medical monitoring. A team of veterinarians and caregivers will accompany the calf, along with her familiar caregiver Shri Nikhil Babu and Assistant Forest Veterinary Officer Dr Binoy C Babu.
The Kerala Forest Department will retain oversight of Maya's treatment through a monitoring committee. Her familiar caregiver will remain with her during treatment, and Vantara will facilitate her return to Abhayaranyam once treatment is complete.
Maya's prognosis remains uncertain.