Defenders of the Wild
The Sanctuary Wildlife Service Awards honour 11 guardians of the wild from across India who are leading the charge for a healthier planet. These individuals have selflessly dedicated their lives to causes larger than themselves, turning the tide in favour of nature. Their unwavering commitment to conservation sets an inspiring example. While no words can fully encompass the depth of their contributions, we share their stories in the hope that their heroism will inspire many others to follow in their footsteps.
We searched for protectors of wild habitats working dedicatedly for decades, inspiring millions, sparking movements, unearthing natural history knowledge, building conservation strategies, and shaping communities…
Steve Winter and Sharon Guynup
Award-winning photographers, storytellers, changemakers
Steve Winter and Sharon Guynup on assignment in Svalbard, Norway. Since 1991, Winter has documented a wide range of subjects for National Geographic, from Russia’s Kamchatka bears to tigers in Myanmar’s Hukawng Valley. With over two decades of experience, Guynup has focused on wildlife, climate change, environmental issues, and more recently the illegal wildlife trade. Photo Courtesy: Steve Winter and Sharon Guynup.
One night in the Guatemalan cloud forest, a jaguar scratched at Steve Winter’s cabin door. Alone and terrified, Winter couldn’t have known this eerie visitation would spark over two decades of work with big cats as a contributing photographer for National Geographic Magazine – and a career spanning over three decades in wildlife conservation. Today, Winter is a renowned wildlife photographer, speaker, producer, and author. Through his powerful images and compelling narratives, he has sparked conversations, inspired change, and influenced policy on endangered species.
Sharon Guynup, Winter’s brilliant long-time partner and colleague, is a science and environmental journalist, who writes for National Geographic. She is an author and photographer, and works on TV and film projects. With expertise in conservation science, wildlife crime, and climate change, Sharon is a global fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Centre for Scholars, a nonpartisan Smithsonian Institution think tank that advises lawmakers. Recently named a “2023 Changemaker” by New York University, where she earned her Master’s in journalism, Guynup is committed to using storytelling to inspire action and drive meaningful change in conservation.
They often work together, and their work has been transformative – not just in the stories they’ve told but in the impact those stories have had on wildlife conservation efforts. From capturing iconic images of endangered big cats to influencing public policy on wildlife trafficking, their work demonstrates how one photograph, article, or film can change history. Their collaboration proves the impact of combining creativity, a deep love for nature, and a drive for positive change. A prime example is Winter’s iconic shot of cougar P-22 under the Hollywood sign – a symbol of urban wildlife resilience. This image played a pivotal role in creating a groundswell of public support for urban wildlife and construction of the world’s largest wildlife bridge, spanning the 101 Freeway, to be completed in 2026.
The team’s investigation into the U.S. captive tiger tourist industry revealed abuse, wildlife trafficking, and danger to the public. Their 30-page National Geographic Magazine feature was shared with members of Congress and ultimately led to the passage of a new law, the Big Cat Public Safety Act. The National Geographic Society presented them with the 2024 Eliz Scidmore Award for Outstanding Storytelling for their impact.
In 2007, while covering a poaching story in India’s Kaziranga National Park, Sharon glimpsed her first wild tiger, sparking a passion for writing about big cats. Alongside Winter, she co-authored Tigers Forever: Saving the World’s Most Endangered Big Cat, in collaboration with Panthera, the world’s largest big cat conservation organisation. Photo Courtesy: Steve Winter and Sharon Guynup.
Winter’s photography journey began at age seven with an Instamatic camera gifted by his father, sparking a lifelong love for nature and photography. His early education came from working with Magnum photographer Michael “Nick” Nichols, and he later honed his storytelling skills at Black Star Photo Agency. Winter’s expeditions into remote areas, such as the Himalaya to photograph snow leopards, led to a homestay programme and a livestock vaccination campaign to reduce human-wildlife conflict. He has produced films on tigers, Mumbai’s leopards, jaguars and other species for Nat Geo WILD. His work has consistently gone beyond breathtaking imagery, focusing on the intricate relationships between wildlife, landscapes, and communities. His stories strive to engage hearts and minds, driving awareness and tangible conservation impact. His many accolades include multiple World Press Photo honours and BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year.
Guynup’s passion for wildlife began early, with memories of nurturing injured insects as a child and learning to love nature from her maternal grandfather, Bill McKenzie, or Poppy. Like Winter, Guynup’s journey started with an Instamatic, a gift from Poppy when she was five years old. She began her career as a photographer. After earning a Masters degree in science and journalism, she collaborated with Winter on investigative stories about the illegal wildlife trade. Their groundbreaking work included exposing black market trade and abuse at the Thai Tiger Temple, shutting it down. Her articles have appeared in outlets including The New York Times, Smithsonian, Scientific American, and numerous peer-reviewed journals. She has co-authored two books with Winter, Tigers Forever and The Ultimate Book of Big Cats. They co-founded a nonprofit to support their storytelling work, Big Cat Voices.
Winter and Guynup, both National Geographic Explorers, have built a career that transcends geographies, professional successes, driven by a shared passion for conservation. Their partnership extends to mentoring the next generation of photographers and journalists, with their granddaughter, Winter Rose, as a reminder of the future they’re working to protect. Their work illustrates how storytelling, dedication, and a deep love for the natural world can create meaningful change.
For their perseverance and passion as global storytellers for the wild, and the incredible efforts they take to change policy and perceptions, particularly the vital need to protect biodiverse species to rein in the climate crisis, we celebrate and honour Steve Winter and Sharon Guynup!
We searched for inspired wildlifers, forest employees, researchers, villagers… virtually anyone currently involved with nature conservation and the battle to protect our biosphere. We found true heroes who displayed extraordinary courage, dedication and determination and set high personal standards for others to follow…
Dr. P. Sathiyaselvam
Zoologist, avian and wetland conservationist, policy specialist
Dr. P. Sathiyaselvam, seen here at Chilika Lake in 2008. His specialisation, Habitat Evaluation of Chilika Lake (Orissa) with Special Reference to Birds as Bio-Indicators, utilised GIS technology to map bird congregation zones, species distribution, and habitat parameters. His research helped predict annual shifts in bird congregation areas and species composition. Photo Courtesy: Dr. P. Sathiyaselvam.
Dr. P. Sathiyaselvam has been instrumental in shaping wildlife policy and fostering international collaborations to protect migratory species along the Central Asian Flyway. He has also worked to protect whale sharks and turtles. His pioneering work on disease surveillance among migratory birds has been crucial in safeguarding avians from increasingly frequent life-threatening consequences.
Dr. Sathiyaselvam’s path to wildlife conservation was shaped by unexpected turns. When a teacher’s strike derailed his dream of becoming a doctor, he found himself studying zoology, sparking a lifelong passion for wildlife, primarily avians. A turning point came while studying for his Master’s in Wildlife Biology, where failing a bird identification test served to fuel his determination to identify over 500 bird species and lead key conservation initiatives.
At the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), he focused on the vital wetland of Chilika Lake, using GIS technology to track habitat changes over seven years. His work led to the creation of a Centralised Database System for bird ringing. He has ringed over 20,000 birds (300 species) across the country.
A mass bird mortality event at Chilika Lake in 2005 catalysed his work in disease surveillance. This proved invaluable during India’s bird flu outbreak in 2006, and he is now a collaborator with the Kerala Veterinary and Agricultural University, the Indian Council for Medical Research, and, critically, the Defence Research Development Establishment for zoonotic surveillance of free-ranging birds.
Dr. Sathiyaselvam with his team engaged in bird ringing at Shaha Island, Ujjani dam in Maharashtra. He has ringed over 20,000 birds (300 species) across the country, which led to the creation of a Centralised Database System for birds ringed by BNHS over the past century. Photo Courtesy: Dr. P. Sathiyaselvam.
Dr. Sathiyaselvam was one among those who helped develop the National Action Plan for Migratory Birds and their habitats along the Central Asian Flyway, as he did for the National Marine Turtle Action Plan (2018-2023). His journey into marine conservation began as early as 2001, when he helped rescue a sperm whale near Point Calimere – a pivotal moment that led to him working on the development of the Marine Mega Fauna Stranding Management Guidelines when he was deputed to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
Despite personal challenges, including having to be away from his family for frequent and lengthy periods of time, Dr. Sathiyaselvam remains unwavering in his commitment to conservation. His work – focused on data collection, collaborative research, and strong institutional support – aims to ensure that future generations inherit a thriving natural world. His diverse experiences across wetlands, forests, and oceans have helped India significantly deal with the challenges facing species protection efforts in India.
For his unassuming, consistent work in avian research and conservation, wetland preservation, and policy development, with empathy for communities and wildlife, Sanctuary salutes Dr. P. Sathiyaselvam!
Dr. Naveen Pandey
Veterinarian, community-based conservationist, disease ecologist
Dr. Naveen Pandey, seen here during a visit to a Myristica swamp in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district in 2022, has been documenting India’s natural heritage for over two decades and has written extensively on the resilience of ecosystems such as grasslands and wetlands. Photo Courtesy: Reshma Jathar.
Dr. Naveen Pandey, seen here during a visit to a Myristica swamp in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district in 2022, has been documenting India’s natural heritage for over two decades and has written extensively on the resilience of ecosystems such as grasslands and wetlands. Photo Courtesy: Reshma Jathar.
Crouched on the forest floor, Dr. Naveen Pandey stitches a chinkara’s abdomen torn in a road accident in Kutchh, or bathes an elephant calf days after its abscess removal surgery in the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. With over two decades of field work under his belt, he is one of India’s foremost wildlife surgeons, and is now General Manager Head Sustainability Biodiversity, even as he continues his mission as a globally recognised One Health Practitioner.
Dr. Pandey’s love for nature began in his childhood in Chittaranjan, West Bengal. After completing his veterinary degree, he pursued a Masters degree in Conservation Medicine from the University of Edinburgh, which laid the foundation for his One Health and community-based conservation work. His first job with the Darjeeling Goodwill Animal Shelter helped him understand the interconnectedness of communities and nature, shaping his commitment to the “One Health” approach that integrates the health of people, animals, and the environment.
Dr. Naveen Pandey refers to the late Dr. A.J.T. Johnsingh as his ‘Natural History Guru.’ The pair travelled extensively to wildernesses such as Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Corbett, Dandeli, Satpuda, and other lesser-known Indian forests for wildlife research and conservation. Photo Courtesy: Dr. Naveen Pandey.
Dr. Pandey later joined The Corbett Foundation as Deputy Director and Veterinary Advisor based in Kaziranga, where he worked for 10 years. Kaziranga soon became home to him and his family, with his sons, Shiven and Nalin, sharing their father’s deep love of nature. Dr. Pandey understands the connection between wildlife and domestic animals in the ecotones of forest peripheries. His work on the management and welfare of captive elephants in West Bengal has become standard practice. His model of mass immunisation of livestock for disease control around the Kanha Tiger Reserve, based on a joint partnership of the park and The Corbett Foundation has become a self-replicating method for over a decade. As an NTCA representative, Dr. Pandey contributed to its efforts to ensure effective protocol implementation for the post-mortem examination of tigers. He has operated on many avians, and rehabilitated them into the wild in his long career spanning Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Jaipur, Kutchh, Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Kaziranga and Tamenglong.
Dr. Pandey has spent over two decades documenting India’s natural heritage. His refreshing advice for young researchers: “You don’t need to ‘try’ to be a conservationist. Being a conservationist is a way of life. Your every act should take you in that direction.”
Dr. Naveen Pandey’s work with fringe communities to ensure the health of people and their livestock has translated into a more secure Kaziranga National Park. Sanctuary salutes him for his compassionate and strategic approach to protecting wildlife, humans, and all of nature!
Dr. Devesh Gadhavi
GIB defender, wildlife lover, committed conservationist
Dr. Devesh Gadhavi holding a captured harrier during his 2023-24 Satellite Telemetry project on raptors (eagles and harriers) in Saurashtra and Kutchh. His journey into wildlife conservation began with a childhood fascination with birds. Photo Courtesy: Dr. Devesh Gadhavi.
“I hope to see a flock of 50 Great Indian Bustards (GIBs) in my lifetime,” says Dr. Devesh Gadhavi, a Gujarat-based wildlife conservationist with over 15 years of experience. As the Deputy Director at The Corbett Foundation (TCF), he is at the forefront of conserving the GIB and its semi-arid grassland habitat. He works tirelessly with local communities, forest officials, power companies, and serves on committees constituted by the Supreme Court of India, to give critically endangered species and their habitats a better survival chance.
Dr. Devesh’s journey into wildlife conservation began with a childhood fascination for birds in Gujarat, under the mentorship of his cousin, Dr. Indra Gadhavi. An early involvement with the Dharmakumarsinhji Nature Conservation Society fueled his passion for birding and research. In 2010, he joined TCF and returned to his ancestral home in Kutchh, where he saw his first GIB. His surveys underscored the urgent need to stem habitat loss, the main cause for the decline of GIBs.
A key achievement was his successful effort to identify GIB habitats outside the forest areas, these were transferred from the Revenue Department to the Forest Department, which protected 15 sq. km. of land. His innovative work included composing a ‘GIB song’ that won the involvement of the community. In 2014, he was appointed to the Gujarat State Wildlife Advisory Board, as a representative of The Corbett Foundation, and served for three terms, helping the species’ recovery.
Dr. Devesh interacting with school students, discussing the various birds found in Kutchh, including the Great Indian Bustard. A keen GIB conservationist, he is passionate about raising awareness of its plight. Photo Courtesy: Dr. Devesh Gadhavi.
That said, inappropriate development strategies continue to pose a significant threat to the GIB. A power substation in its core habitat in Kutchh and a rapid increase in the network of overhead powerlines resulted in the tragic death of a GIB in 2014, followed by another GIB death owing to collision with a powerline in 2017. Despite successful legal action calling for underground power lines, a recent court ruling has again placed the GIB at risk.
Since 2021, Dr. Devesh has served on Supreme Court committees tasked with balancing conservation and development. His work is supported by his wife, and a committed team of researchers at TCF. For Dr. Devesh, each sighting of a GIB in the wild strengthens his resolve to protect the species and its fragile ecosystem. “The fate of the GIB, other grassland birds, and grasslands is up to us,” he says, inspiring hope in the ongoing fight.
For his indomitable spirit, commitment to wild India, relentless and consistent efforts, we honour Devesh Gadhavi.
L. Krishnamoorthy
Indian Forest Service officer, leader, conservationist
L. Krishnamoorthy grew up exploring the forests and hills of Krishnagiri, a town in the Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu. His childhood love for nature became a commitment to protect it after graduating in Forestry. He cleared the civil services exams pursuing his masters and joined the IFS Madhya Pradesh Cadre in 1997. Photo Courtesy: L. Krishnamoorthy.
Wildlife conservation is like crafting a mosaic – each seemingly broken piece contributes to a greater, vibrant whole. In Madhya Pradesh, Indian Forest Services officer L. Krishnamoorthy has been the artist, shaping the now-thriving forests of the Satpura Tiger Reserve that has turned into a national beacon for conservation. Krishnamoorthy’s journey began in the forests of Krishanagiri, Tamil Nadu, where a childhood fascination with nature led him to pursue a B.Sc. in Forestry and to later join the Indian Forest Service in 1997.
Today, as the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests in Madhya Pradesh, his leadership has left a lasting impact on wildlife and local communities alike.
Under his stewardship, the Satpura Tiger Reserve ranked second in the 2022 Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of Tiger Reserves, and Krishnamoorthy’s success with voluntary village relocation has expanded the inviolate spaces essential for the survival of wildlife. He has strengthened ecotourism activities in Satpura, and has institutionalised habitat management practices.
Working with village elders, he successfully oversaw the relocation of nine villages, thus ensuring that endangered species like the tiger, barasingha and their coinhabitants were given undisturbed habitats. He followed this up with development work in the relocated sites resulting in the resettled communities becoming ambassadors for others who were considering whether or not to opt for relocation. Meanwhile, all the 18 villages, formally categorised as Revenue Villages inside the tiger reserve, were notified as Reserved Forests under the India Forest Act 1927. These efforts have paid off: Satpura’s tiger population has increased from 41 in 2018 to 61 in 2023. Krishnamoorthy’s work in wildlife protection earned Satpura the 2022 TX2 Award (WWF’s ambitious global tiger recovery effort award ). The population of sambar, gaur, chital and wild pigs has also increased many fold. The team was able to successfully establish a second home for barasingha in Satpura by following barasingha-specific habitat management.
Over the past 24 years, L. Krishnamoorthy has led numerous conservation projects. Under his leadership as Field Director, the Satpura Tiger Reserve was ranked second in the 2022 Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of Tiger Reserves, conducted by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). Photo Courtesy: L. Krishnamoorthy.
Krishnamoorthy also works closely with local communities, fostering conservation awareness and creating livelihood opportunities. Under his leadership, the first-ever batch of women safari guides was inducted, and ecotourism was streamlined to support local economies. By addressing human-wildlife conflict and cultivating a culture of conservation, he has ensured the interests of both people and wildlife are safeguarded.
Krishnamoorthy implemented the Monitoring System for Tigers: Intensive Protection and Ecological Status (MSTrIPES) programme, turning Satpura into one of the best-patrolled parks in India. His proactive use of digitisation – mapping forest blocks and reducing land disputes – has greatly bolstered conservation efforts and his dedication and visionary leadership continues to inspire future generations of conservationists.
L. Krishnamoorthy’s passion for wildlife conservation and community involvement, has set high standards for other states and Protected Areas that are jewels in the crown of India’s rich natural heritage. For being an astute forester, an empathetic leader, and a driver of change in the service of the wild, Sanctuary honours him!
Purnima Devi Barman
Wildlife biologist, Hargila warrior, community empowerer
A spirited conservationist and wildlife biologist from Assam, Dr. Purnima Devi Barman spends much of her time leading public awareness and educational programmes for students, championing the cause of the Greater Adjutant Stork. She has played a key role in bringing the species back from the brink of extinction. Today, her name is synonymous with the bird she swore to protect, the Hargila. Photo Courtesy: Dr. Purnima Devi Barman.
Purnima Devi Barman, a wildlife biologist from Assam, is addressing a deep injustice in the world of conservation – overlooking non-charismatic species that face the same, if not greater, threats than charismatic animals. Her work to protect the Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as the hargila, is testament to this effort.
A recipient of the Whitley Gold Award (often called the “Green Oscar”) and the Nari Shakti Puraskar, India’s highest civilian award for women, Purnima is the founder of the Hargila Army, an all-female initiative dedicated to saving this critically endangered species. The Greater Adjutant Stork, once abundant across India and Southeast Asia, had seen its numbers plummet to under 1,000 by the 1990s. Its decline continues to be driven by habitat loss, destruction of nesting sites, and a societal perception of the bird as an “ugly” pest, leading to further threats to its survival.
Purnima’s journey with the hargila began in 2007 when she chose it as the focus of her Ph.D. research in Kamrup district, Assam. During her studies, she discovered that the storks were abandoning their traditional wetlands for treetop nests near villages – only to find that these nesting trees were frequently cut down. Purnima responded by launching a community-based conservation initiative, involving local women who were determined to shift perceptions and to highlight the endangered bird’s ecological importance in maintaining environmental health.
Her work has been transformative. What began with 28 nests counted in 2007 has now grown to over 200. Through creative solutions such as the construction of artificial bamboo nesting platforms and the incorporation of the storks’ image into traditional handloom products, Purnima’s team has managed to successfully rally over 20,000 women in conservation efforts. Of course, the proceeds of the handcrafted items sold, go back to the community.
Purnima founded the Hargila Army, an all-female conservation initiative dedicated to protecting the Greater Adjutant Stork. Through her leadership, Purnima’s team has successfully rallied over 20,000 women to join this vital conservation effort. Photo Courtesy: Dr. Purnima Devi Barman.
A wildlife biologist at Aaranyak, a wildlife NGO, Purnima also serves as the Director of Species Restoration at the Netherlands-based Rewilding Academy, where she focuses on community climate education. Additionally, she heads India’s Women in Nature Network (WiNN) chapter, empowering women in conservation. Significantly, bringing the Greater Adjutant Stork back from the brink has been driven by community involvement and has demonstrated for India and the world just how powerful determined women can be for national and global biodiversity conservation efforts.
Purnima started out alone, but quickly drew public support and admiration for her mission, which exemplifies how one determined individual can change public perceptions and create lasting change. Through her leadership and the collective strength of the Hargila Army, she has helped bring a species back from the edge of extinction. And in doing so demonstrated the importance of staunching the decline of all species, without which global scientific consensus confirms that neither our biodiversity, nor climate crisis have much hope of solution in the difficult years ahead.
For being the lighthouse that sows seeds of hope and motivates communities to protect their natural heritage, and for giving the threatened Greater Adjutant Stork a more secure future in Assam, Sanctuary honours Purnima Devi Barman.
Mariyambi P.C.
Marine researcher, diver and educator
As part of a research team, Mariyambi is playing a pivotal role in exploring the rich marine life surrounding Lakshadweep. She has contributed to the discovery of several species including two types of crabs, three fish species, and a polychaete, some of which attribute their first descriptions to her research. Photo Courtesy: Shabeena M.
Mariyambi grew up on Kadamat Island, Lakshadweep, watching her father and brothers venture into the sea, a sight that filled her with awe. Little did she know that one day, she would not only set sail on those very waters – but do so to uncover the hidden world beneath. Today, as part of a research team, she plays a pivotal role in exploring the rich marine life surrounding Lakshadweep, contributing to the discovery of unknown species. Her work has expanded scientific understanding, with several new species records from Lakshadweep, including two types of crabs, three fish species, and a polychaete, some of which attribute their first descriptions to her research.
Mariyambi’s journey is remarkable: she is the first woman from her island to pursue marine biodiversity research as a diving specialist. In a community where only men have traditionally taken to the sea, Mariyambi, alongside fellow researcher Shabeena, has broken barriers. They are the first women from Kavaratti to embark on marine biology research and doctoral studies, opening the door for future generations of women in the field.
With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Zoology, Mariyambi is now focused on documenting marine biodiversity of Lakshadweep. Her Ph.D. research, undertaken at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, explores the relationship between echinoderms (such as starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers) and the species that associate with them.
Among her many contributions, Mariyambi has been instrumental in discovering three new fish species: Physiculus lakshadeepa, Physiculus indicus, and Caesio idreesi – the latter named in honour of K.K. Idreesbabu, a scientist, academic, and mentor to both Mariyambi and Shabeena M., for his contributions to marine biodiversity exploration and conservation in the Laccadive archipelago.
Mariyambi P.C. and Shabeena M., defied all odds to enter marine research. They are the first women from Lakshadweep to pursue marine biology research and doctoral studies, supported by a grant from The Habitats Trust. They are seen here with K.K. Idreesbabu, a scientist, academic, and mentor to both Mariyambi and Shabeena. Photo Courtesy: Mariyambi P.C. and Shabeena M.
In 2023, she had the distinct honour of accompanying the Honourable President of India on a scuba diving exploration in Lakshadweep, a rare recognition of her esteemed position in marine research.
Throughout her journey, the support of The Habitats Trust (see page 42) during the pandemic was crucial, allowing her to continue the vital work despite unprecedented challenges. In addition to pure research, Mariyambi is committed to community education to protect the fragile marine ecosystems of Lakshadweep. Hopeful about the future, Mariyambi is concerned about the environmental challenges facing her island, the livelihoods of its people, and the planet’s health.
For her groundbreaking contributions to science, her pioneering spirit, and her dedication to preserving the ocean’s delicate ecosystems, Sanctuary is proud to honour Mariyambi.
Dr. Shabeena M.
Researcher, marine protector, trailblazer
Driven by their passion for marine biology, Mariyambi and Shabeena committed to learn scuba diving and are now adept at it. Mariyambi had the distinct honour of being part of the team that facilitated scuba diving for President Droupadi Murmu during her visit to Bangaram Island in Lakshadweep in March 2023. Photo Courtesy: Mariyambi P.C. and Shabeena M.
“Fashi,” says Shabeena’s daughter, a local term on Kavaratti Island that encompasses both seaweed and seagrass. For Shabeena, the term encapsulates not just the marine life she studies but the passion that has defined her career. Elated after defending her Ph.D., Shabeena is proud of the significant contribution her research has made. She is the first woman from Lakshadweep to complete a Ph.D. in marine biology. She documented the presence and abundance of macroalgae in the intertidal zones, and down to a depth of 25 m., across several Lakshadweep islands, discovering seven new species for the archipelago. Her checklist of marine macroalgae, with updated nomenclature, is now utilised by the Lakshadweep administration too.
Shabeena and Mariyambi are among the first women from Lakshadweep to pursue doctoral studies in marine biodiversity. Their trailblazing journey has transformed their lives and paved the way for future generations of women in science in their community. Mariyambi and Shabeena, both mothers, are raising awareness about biodiversity, coral reef restoration, and the impacts of climate change on the island.
Shabeena’s path has been anything but easy. She defied early expectations, completing her studies on the island before becoming a fisheries teacher. Her true calling, however, was marine research. It led her to the Department of Science and Technology in Lakshadweep, where she embarked on groundbreaking research for her Ph.D. Now, Shabeena aims to delve into the molecular study of microalgae, driven by an unyielding ambition and a belief in limitless possibilities, Shabeena’s work inspires all those around her.
For her resilience, dedication, and spirit, Sanctuary is proud to honour her.
We looked for driven youth leaders, setting examples for their peers and their elders. Young women and men with a thirst for knowledge, possessing conservation entrepreneurship and passionately motivated to work for a sustainable future for all life on Planet Earth.
Meehir Pawar
Entomologist, naturalist, nature educator
For the past several years, young naturalist and entomologist Meehir Pawar has spent his weekends guiding students and adults on nature walks around Mumbai. His particular affinity for dragonflies and damselflies led him to focus his Master’s dissertation on the impact of urbanisation on these species in Alibaug, Maharashtra. Photo Courtesy: Meehir Pawar.
“The forests are my safe retreat,” Meehir Pawar says with unwavering passion. “Their natural history is my open encyclopaedia – a resource I wish to share with everyone.” Just 22 years old, this naturalist is already a trained entomologist, who spends much of his time immersed in wild forests, absorbing the wonders of nature. With a particular affinity for dragonflies and damselflies, he is acutely aware of the vital ecological roles these odonates play as both prey and predator, and as indicators of the health of wetlands. In a world where insect populations are rapidly declining, young conservationists like Meehir are pillars of hope. “Insects are the foundation of nature’s food chains,” he says. “Without them, nothing higher up can survive.” For Meehir, protecting insects is a way of protecting the entire ecosystem.
His master’s dissertation, focused on the impact of urbanisation on dragonflies and damselflies in Alibaug, Maharashtra, reflects his dedication to understanding how human development affects these crucial insects. Based in Mumbai, he holds an M.S. in Entomology from the K.J. Somaiya College of Science and Commerce.
Despite the demands of his academic work, Meehir is equally passionate about nature education. For the past several years, he has dedicated weekends to guiding students and adults on nature walks around Mumbai to help them connect with the natural world. On these expeditions, he educates participants on topics including waste management, recycling, the importance of forests in urban settings, and human-wildlife interactions, thus empowering them to make informed, ecologically responsible choices.
Meehir’s fieldwork spans academic research and biodiversity assessments for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) across India. During an internship with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), he researched Mumbai’s urban leopards, setting up camera traps and collecting GPS data on collared leopards. His volunteer work with WWF-India’s Dragonfly Festival and his coastal explorations with and for ‘Marine Life of Mumbai’ demonstrates his commitment to public awareness, particularly through educational translations in Marathi.
A strong advocate for nature education, Meehir has also contributed to outreach programmes at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park’s (SGNP’s) Nature Information Centre (NIC), where he leads nature trails and manages their social media outreach. Wildernesses such as Matheran, the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, and the coasts of Mumbai and Alibag, have equally served as his early training grounds that now qualify him to leading educational outings.
Meehir is also deeply engaged in hands-on conservation efforts, including beach and forest cleanups, bund building, and creating public awareness around sustainable practices. During the COVID-19 lockdown, he launched a social media page dedicated to zoology outreach, curating infographics and content for both life science students and the general public.
For his tireless efforts to advance scientific understanding and for inspiring a new generation of naturalists to understand and protect the natural world, Sanctuary honours him.
A skilled educator who challenges norms and inspires youth to connect with the wild and who joins the conservation community as an informed, concerned individual.
Rouf Ahmed Rather
Naturalist par excellence, educator, nature photographer
Young Rouf chose to work outdoors at an apple orchard, where his connection with nature deepened through the exploration of nearby habitats, driven by a passion for birding. Today, he is a mentor, naturalist, and one of Kashmir’s finest nature photographers. Photo Courtesy: Rouf Rather.
Rouf is a charismatic young visionary. His mission is to create a phalanx of young nature defenders by offering them hopeful, learning experiences to create a deeper connection with the magic of the biosphere. By fostering this relationship, Rouf is encouraging young people to work in harmony with wild places, systems and species, countering the practices of generations of elders across the globe that continue to look upon life-giving wildernesses as little more than an unlimited larder of raw materials to be trashed for short-term economic gains.
Having grown up in the lap of the natural beauty of Kashmir’s Dachigam National Park, Rouf is now a dedicated steward and a mentor for young Kashmiris. Soon after finishing school, young Rouf chose to work outdoors at an apple orchard, where his relationship with nature deepened through the exploration of nearby habitats, fuelled by a passion for birding. Today, he is a teacher at J&K’s Government Boys High School in Habbak, Shanpora, Srinagar. He is also the Head of the Jammu & Kashmir Birdwatchers’ Club,
Popular with his students, Rouf emphasises education and community involvement, encouraging young Kashmiris to embrace and explore the forests, wetlands, high altitude grasslands, and wild flower meadows that made Kashmir the ‘Jannat’ (paradise) it is. Aligned with the Wildlife Conservation Fund (WCF), an NGO founded in 2010, he believes that uniting young people is the most effective way to improve their quality of life and tackle the global threats posed by the climate crisis.
Rouf holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Kashmir University, and later earned a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) from IGNOU. After being recruited by the Department of Education, he began working closely with the ENVIS Hub at the J&K Department of Ecology, Environment, and Remote Sensing. He encourages curiosity in his students and frequently leads groups of young Kashmiris on conservation walks and birdwatching treks, believing these experiences deepen their understanding of nature through direct interaction. He also involves them in community clean-ups, working in tandem with villagers and government officials. By holding outdoor workshops, Rouf’s students absorb environmental awareness naturally through hands-on learning.
Despite dwindling resources and the worsening climate crisis, Rouf continues to make remarkable progress with a new generation of socially diverse, local conservationists destined to be globally recognised biodiversity and climate champions. His love of nature is infectious and understandably, his reputation as an empathetic teacher has grown, as have the many photography and short film awards he says were mere byproducts of his mission.
In an era marked by a growing disconnect between the natural world and everyday human life, educators like Rouf serve as vital bridgeheads to connect young minds with the natural world, empowering them to be stewards and citadels of hope for a future where humans live in harmony with nature as an article of faith and survival.
For his visceral belief in nature conservation, and dedication to the use of education as a gateway to secure tomorrows, we honour him.