Vets on Wheels Odisha (MVS Keonjhar), 18th June 2026: On a January morning in 2026, a young female Asian elephant calf, estimated to be around 1-2 months old, arrived at the Elephant Calf Nursery in Keonjhar after a difficult start to life. The calf was found alone in the Barkot range of Deogarh Forest Division with no sign of its herd nearby. The forest staff made every effort to unite the calf with a herd they found after considerable tracking. Despite multiple attempts, the herd did not accept the calf, leaving her without the protection and care of its family. With no possibility of reunion, the young elephant was brought to the newly established Elephant Calf Nursery at Keonjhar, where a dedicated team of veterinarians and animal keepers took over its care.

Wildlife veterinarian Dr Brajraj Yadav providing the calf with a specialised milk formula | Photo © Team WTI

The calf arrived in a weak condition after prolonged starvation and required immediate attention. Over the following days, round-the-clock care, careful feeding and constant monitoring helped the calf regain strength. Gradually, we observed positive signs of recovery. What started as a fragile rescue soon became a story of resilience and hope.

Today, the calf has settled comfortably into the new surroundings. Her days are filled with activities designed to keep her healthy, active and mentally stimulated. Our team has introduced a variety of enrichment items, including a football, which has quickly become a favourite. She can often be seen enthusiastically kicking it around the enclosure.

The calf has grown more active and is engaging with enrichment to stay mentally and physically stimulated| Photo © Team WTI

Wooden sticks are another favourite, which she carries with her trunk, helping to develop strength and coordination while satisfying her natural curiosity. With the temperature soaring, the bathing pit has become a cherished spot where she spends hours splashing and wallowing. These playful behaviours are encouraging signs that the calf is adapting well, thriving in her environment, and expressing her natural instincts.

The nursery team follows a carefully planned feeding routine to support Saraswati’s growth and recovery. Every meal is prepared with care, and its progress is closely monitored. She is currently fed approximately 2.5 litres of milk 7-8 times a day. The feeding schedule extends through the day and night, ensuring that her nutritional needs are met around the clock. Between feeding sessions, she spends much of her time resting, playing, bathing and exploring her surroundings, gradually settling into a healthy daily routine.

Since arriving at the nursery, the calf, who has been named Saraswati by our team,  has shown steady improvement in health, confidence and overall body condition. Her weight has increased from 119 kg at the time of admission to 187.2 kg in June 2026, a gain of more than 68 kg in less than five months,  roughly 450 gms a day, which is acceptable. This transformation reflects the commitment of forest staff, veterinarians, animal keepers and everyone involved in her rehabilitation. While Saraswati’s journey is far from over, she stands as a symbol of what compassionate care and dedication can achieve. 

Saraswati spends much of her time resting, playing, bathing and exploring her surroundings, gradually settling into a healthy daily routine | Photo © Team WTI

For now, Saraswati will remain under the care of the Elephant Calf Nursery, where she will continue to receive specialised attention, nutrition, enrichment and veterinary support as she grows stronger with each passing day.

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