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Conservationists in India Known for Safeguarding Indian Wildlife
Wildlife conservation is the active effort to prevent the uneven killing and poaching of animals. It goes beyond just preserving species; it involves raising awareness among people about the significance of wildlife. While the definition might be straightforward, the actual execution of wildlife conservation is a complex and challenging endeavor. The importance of wildlife conservation lies in maintaining the delicate balance of the food chain and the overall ecosystem. In India, a multitude of wildlife species faces the threat of illegal hunting for various body parts such as skin, nails, meat, and horns, solely to fulfill human needs. Fortunately, there are dedicated wildlife conservationists who have devoted their entire lives to safeguarding and preserving these animals.
Let’s learn about their contributions before booking any Wildlife Tour Packages in India.
Billy Arjan Singh (1917-2010) Billy Arjan Singh, a former hunter turned conservationist and author, is renowned for being the pioneer who dared to reintroduce tigers and leopards from captivity back into the wild. Despite his youth as an avid hunter, a pivotal moment occurred when he shot a young leopard in the headlights of his vehicle, triggering a transformative shift towards renouncing hunting and dedicating himself to conservation. Singh's initial conservation initiative involved rescuing a herd of Barasingha in the Sathiana range of the Dudhwa forest reserve.
His pivotal role continued as he successfully reintroduced leopards and a tiger into the wilderness of Dudhwa National Park, aiming to restore these majestic cats to their natural habitat, a significant stride in wildlife preservation. In acknowledgment of his substantial contributions, Billy Arjan Singh was awarded the World Wildlife Gold Medal in 1996 and, posthumously, the Order of Golden Ark in 1997. These prestigious accolades underscore the enduring impact of his efforts in safeguarding and conserving India's diverse wildlife.
Kailash Sankhala (1925-1994) Renowned Indian biologist and conservationist, Kailash Sankhala, held pivotal roles as Rajasthan's Chief Wildlife Warden and Director of the Delhi Zoological Park. Widely acclaimed for his tireless efforts in tiger conservation, he earned the title 'Tiger Man of India.' Beginning his service in the forest sector in 1953, Sankhala dedicated himself to the management of Rajasthan's forests and animal sanctuaries, including Sariska, Bharatpur, Ban Vihar, and Ranthambore, during the period from 1953 to 1964.
His noteworthy contributions to wildlife conservation were acknowledged with the prestigious Padma Shri Award in 1992. Posthumously, in 2013, he was honoured with the Rajasthan Ratan, further cementing his legacy as a key figure in India's efforts to safeguard its rich biodiversity.
James Edward Corbett (1875-1955) The enduring legacy of Jim Corbett lives on as one explores the expansive wilderness of Jim Corbett National Park. This iconic national park, among the most frequented in India, remains a cornerstone in conservation, echoing the principles imparted by Jim Corbett himself. His profound influence continues to provide a secure haven for the majestic mammals he cherished, particularly the tigers, whom he fondly described as 'large-hearted gentlemen with boundless courage.'
Widely recognized as one of India's earliest conservationists, Jim Corbett left an indelible mark on the landscape. In 1935, he played a pivotal role alongside Malcolm Hailey in establishing India's inaugural national park. Collaborating with Hailey, he founded the association for the protection of wildlife in the United Provinces. Posthumously, in 1955, the national park underwent a significant renaming, honouring Corbett's legacy by becoming Jim Corbett National Park, a testament to his pioneering efforts in wildlife conservation.
MK Ranjitsingh (1939-present) MK Ranjitsingh, a dedicated member of the Indian Administrative Service since 1961, assumed his posting in Mandla, Madhya Pradesh, in 1967. During this period, he played a pivotal role in rescuing the Indian Barasingha from the verge of extinction. Subsequently, as the secretary of forest and tourism in Madhya Pradesh, Ranjitsingh showcased his unwavering commitment to conservation by establishing 14 new sanctuaries, 8 national parks, and doubling the area of three existing national parks.
His influence extended nationally when he served as the country's inaugural director of wildlife preservation under the Environment Ministry from 1973 to 1975. Currently serving as an emeritus member on the board of trustees of the Wildlife Trust of India, MK Ranjitsingh continues his active involvement in wildlife conservation.
A defining moment in his conservation journey was his pivotal role as one of the primary architects behind the Wildlife Protection Act in 1972. This groundbreaking legislation represents the foundational and foremost central law on wildlife conservation in India, solidifying Ranjitsingh's lasting impact on the nation's conservation policies.
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