Sumatran orangutan

• On October 19, 2026, India safely repatriated an infant Sumatran orangutan—which had been rescued in November 2024—back to Indonesia.

• Following its rescue in India, the orangutan was provided with specialized veterinary care and a suitable environment in Gujarat to ensure its proper well-being.

• The repatriation was a collaborative effort involving wildlife conservation agencies and CITES management authorities from both India and Indonesia.

• The orangutan arrived at Kualanamu Airport in the Indonesian city of Medan, where the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry held a welcome ceremony. Officials from the Consulate General of India were also present on the occasion.

• Notably, the Government of India declined to seek reimbursement for the expenses incurred during the care and maintenance of the orangutan. This gesture reflects India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the spirit of cooperation between the two nations.

• Furthermore, this incident underscores the importance of international partnerships and a humane approach in ensuring the safe return of wildlife to their countries of origin.