In a surprising move, Newcastle University has appointed Anant Ambani, the son of India's richest person, Mukesh Ambani, as a professor of sustainability. This decision has sparked backlash from conservationists due to Ambani's controversial role in running a mega-zoo.
Background on the Appointment
The university announced that Ambani was given a professorship of practice for his contributions to conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. Ambani, who is 31 years old, leads renewable energy initiatives on the executive board of the Reliance Group and is estimated to be worth £90 billion.
Ambani's family has significant ties to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Mukesh Ambani having praised BJP policies and made substantial donations to the party. Prime Minister Narendra Modi even attended Anant Ambani's lavish wedding in Mumbai in 2024.
Controversial Zoo and Conservation Efforts
Anant Ambani operates Vantara, a 1,400-hectare private zoo in Gujarat, which houses over 150,000 animals, including endangered species. Conservation groups have raised concerns about the sourcing of these animals, although Vantara has never been found guilty of wrongdoing.
Reactions from Conservationists
The announcement of Ambani's appointment has been met with incredulity from academics and conservationists. Ramachandra Guha, a prominent Indian public intellectual, expressed his disbelief, stating:
