Ecological Conservation

Dr Harshwanti Bisht | Deputy Director | Directorate of Higher Education

What is Ecological Conservation?

A Career in Ecological Conservation is very intriguing. Understanding Why one wants to choose a Career in Ecological Conservation is phenomenally more important than figuring out How to get into Ecological Conservation. The most authoritative source of information on Ecological Conservation is someone with real experience in it.

Deputy Director Dr Harshwanti Bisht has worked in Ecological Conservation for 41 years. Deputy Director Dr Harshwanti Bisht describes Ecological Conservation as:

Ecological Conservation is the management of nature and of Earth's biodiversity with the aim of protecting species, their habitats, and ecosystems from excessive rates of extinction and the erosion of biotic interactions.

How Deputy Director Dr Harshwanti Bisht got into Ecological Conservation?

I am a mountaineer. In 1981, I along with two other women became the first three women to summit the main peak of Nanda Devi (7,816 m). I was also a member of the Indian expedition to Mount Everest in 1984 and was awarded the Arjuna Award and Directorate of Higher Education, Government of UP Gold Medal. I am the Founder of Save Gangotri Project. I was awarded the Sir Edmund Hillary Medal for my philanthropic achievements and work to improve conditions in the Gangotri area of Uttarakhand, at the headwaters of the Ganges over the past 25 years. I am Deputy Director (Higher education) & Joint Director (RUSA) and actively working for the eco-conservation of Gangotri in Garhwal Himalaya.

Deputy Director Dr Harshwanti Bisht's Talk on Ecological Conservation

Navigating the Peaks of Ecological Conservation and Research In a world increasingly confronted by environmental changes, the role of ecological conservation and research has never been more vital. Dedicated professionals like Professor Harshwanti Besht are at the forefront of these efforts, particularly in the pristine and fragile ecosystems of areas like Gangoti Gaumukh. With over forty years of experience in higher education and a deep commitment to ecological integrity, Professor Besht’s journey not only highlights the importance of conserving our natural resources but also emphasizes the essential knowledge and skills required for effective research and conservation. What Is Ecological Conservation & Research Ecological conservation is the practice of protecting and restoring natural environments while conducting research to understand their dynamics better. It involves not only safeguarding flora and fauna but also addressing the impact of human activities, such as tourism and industrialization, on vulnerable ecosystems. Professor Besht's work illustrates this, as she recognizes the delicate balance in areas that are popular tourist destinations. Her initiative responds to the increasing strain on these natural habitats, aiming to prevent resource depletion, which if neglected, could severely diminish the ecological and economic wealth from tourism. The significance of conservation is dire, especially in areas of high ecological importance. Professor Besht has noted that the unchecked influx of tourists has led to significant environmental degradation, highlighting a dire need for structured conservation policies. Her research is a testament to the critical need for human stewardship over natural resources and provides a framework for understanding how increased awareness can guide sustainable practices. Education: Essential Knowledge for Conservation Local Area Knowledge A foundational aspect of ecological conservation is understanding the local geography and climate. For Professor Besht, familiarity with the Gangoti Gaumukh area's specific terrain and ecological conditions is indispensable for effective conservation efforts. Knowing the nuances of this high-altitude region—from its soil composition to its weather patterns—enables successful implementation of remediation strategies. Equipped with this knowledge, conservationists can develop tailored solutions to environmental issues. For example, understanding the unique challenges of high-altitude ecosystems has guided Professor Besht in selecting species for reforestation, ensuring that they are indigenous to the area and thus more likely to thrive, thereby promoting a self-sustaining environment. Flora & Fauna Research into local flora and fauna is another cornerstone of effective conservation. Professor Besht emphasizes the necessity of recognizing which plants and animals are essential for maintaining ecological balance. This knowledge allows for strategic planning in preservation and restoration activities, fostering biodiversity that contributes to ecosystem resilience. In practical application, Professor Besht conducts extensive studies on local species, such as Bhojpatra trees and junipers, understanding their growth patterns and ecological roles. By focusing on native species, she promotes a deeper connection to the land and nurtures the natural ecosystems that have existed for centuries, which is crucial for sustainable development. Plantation Techniques & Methods Implementing effective plantation techniques is vital for successful ecological restoration. Professor Besht's development of specific propagation methods, such as vegetative propagation for Bhojpatra trees, showcases the need for practical skills in conservation work. Her hands-on experience demonstrates that success is often dictated by understanding local vegetation and successfully nurturing saplings in challenging conditions. Trial and error have been essential in her approach, highlighting the importance of patience and adaptability in ecological projects. For instance, after initially struggling with vegetative propagation, she switched to direct seeding methods, which resulted in successful seedling development after careful planning and care, showcasing a successful iteration of conservation efforts. Skills: The Tools of a Conservationist Environmental Awareness A profound understanding of environmental issues is crucial for anyone involved in ecological conservation. This awareness not only guides research but also enables conservationists to engage effectively with the public. Professor Besht illustrates this through her dedication to raising awareness among visitors to fragile ecosystems, ensuring they understand the impact of their actions on these delicate environments. By fostering awareness, she aims to inspire a shared responsibility for ecological preservation, transforming tourists and local communities into active participants in conservation efforts. This community engagement is key to changing behaviors that impact the environment negatively. Acclimatisation Working in high-altitude regions requires unique physical and mental acclimatization skills. Professor Besht shares that understanding how to navigate these tough terrains is a critical success factor in her work. Effective acclimatization not only enhances personal safety but also ensures that conservationists can focus fully on their research and restoration efforts without being hindered by environmental stresses. Her own experiences climbing and conducting field research in challenging conditions offer a model for future conservationists striving to work in similarly remote and demanding environments. Research The ability to conduct thorough research is fundamental to conservation efforts. Professor Besht's extensive fieldwork has equipped her with the techniques to gather data that informs ecological understanding and strategies. By both observing and recording changes in plant and animal populations, she builds a body of evidence that drives effective conservation policy. Professor Besht has engaged in research that identifies how climate change is shifting the distribution of flora and fauna, allowing for preemptive adaptations that bolster ecological resilience. Her insights highlight the importance of science in guiding not only practice but also broader discussions on environmental stewardship. Communication with Locals Effective communication with local communities is an underappreciated yet vital skill for conservationists. Professor Besht emphasizes the need for respectful engagement with indigenous populations, recognizing their invaluable knowledge of local ecosystems. By fostering relationships based on trust and shared objectives, conservationists can successfully integrate local insights into ecological management strategies. This communication enriches both the research process and the respect for cultural practices that enhance conservation efforts. For instance, local customs that historically respected certain areas as sacred can provide powerful insights into sustainable practices. Educating People Education plays a pivotal role in promoting conservation. By equipping tourists and locals with knowledge about preserving their surroundings, conservationists can mitigate harmful behaviors, such as littering or uninformed resource use. Professor Besht actively engages in this educational outreach, attempting to change the "use and throw" mentality that has proliferated with modern consumerism. Empowering community members to cherish and protect their natural heritage fosters a culture of responsibility that is essential for long-term ecological sustainability. Through workshops and outreach programs, she highlights the vital role awareness plays in conservation efforts. Positives: The Rewards of Conservation Employment Generation One of the most immediate benefits of ecological conservation is the generation of employment opportunities. Research teams and conservation projects often require local labor, providing seasonal jobs that help sustain communities economically. Professor Besht details how, during her projects, local individuals are trained and employed, fostering economic growth alongside environmental stewardship. This employment not only aids local economies but also facilitates a deeper connection between the workers and their environment, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility for their natural heritage. Creating Awareness among Locals The ripple effects of conservation work extend beyond direct employment. As local workers become involved in ecological projects, they develop a greater awareness of environmental issues. Professor Besht notes that many individuals she has encountered have gained valuable insights into ecological dynamics, enhancing their understanding of local conditions and behaviors that affect biodiversity. This shift in mindset can lead to community-led conservation initiatives, where residents advocate for sustainable practices and collaborate on projects to protect their environment. Conservation At its core, the primary positive outcome of ecological conservation efforts is the actual preservation of the environment. Professor Besht's work in Bhojpasa, which includes the reforestation of indigenous species like Bhojpatra, reflects a broader commitment to maintaining ecological integrity while allowing for sustainable human interaction with these landscapes. This commitment ensures that future generations will inherit a rich, diverse ecology capable of supporting both wildlife and human needs, showcasing the intricate balance involved in successful conservation efforts. Challenges: Navigating the Obstacles Difficult Terrain The geographical challenges of conducting research in high-altitude regions cannot be overstated. Professor Besht explains that the rugged and often inaccessible terrain poses significant hurdles for conservation work. Planning and logistics can become complicated, necessitating skilled navigation and adaptability to changing conditions. These challenges demand not only physical endurance but also strategic foresight, as researchers must prepare for variables that could impede their work, from landslides to treacherous weather. Climatic Change Climate change represents a formidable challenge that complicates conservation efforts dramatically. Professor Besht has witnessed firsthand how changing temperatures and patterns affect local ecosystems, prompting shifts in species distribution. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for adjusting conservation strategies that effectively respond to evolving environmental conditions. By conducting research that identifies these changes, Professor Besht advocates for proactive approaches that accommodate the shifts wrought by climate change, ensuring conservation efforts remain relevant amid these transformations. Natural Hazards Natural hazards such as landslides and severe weather events pose consistent threats to conservation efforts in mountainous regions. Professor Besht emphasizes the need for preparation in her fieldwork, as the unpredictability of nature can disrupt projects or endanger researchers. Consequently, cultivating a robust mental and physical preparation strategy is vital for those aiming to succeed in this challenging line of work. Researchers must develop resilience in the face of these hazards, ensuring they remain focused and safe while dedicated to their ecological missions. A Day Of: Insights from the Field Ecological Conservation & Research The daily routines of conservationists like Professor Besht are shaped by the unique demands of their environments. She describes her days starting early in the cold, before gradually engaging with her research and plant care as the sun rises. This rhythm mirrors the natural cycles and highlights the physical and logistical challenges inherent in undertaking conservation work in mountainous terrains. Her time is spent overseeing sapling care, implementing irrigation methods, and gathering data on species growth, while also navigating the obstacles presented by weather and local conditions. Each day emphasizes the interdependence of human activity and environmental stewardship, as Professor Besht balances her practical work with research and community engagement. In the face of these challenges and joys, conservationists find not only purpose in their work but also inspiration in the landscapes they seek to protect. Professor Besht's passion for ecological conservation and research stands as a beacon for future generations, reminding us that while the task may be demanding, the rewards—both for the environment and society—are immeasurable. Conclusion The world of ecological conservation and research requires a unique blend of knowledge, skills, and a passionate commitment to protecting our planet. Through the lens of Professor Harshwanti Besht's experiences, we gain valuable insights into the vital work being done in fragile ecosystems and the imperative need for awareness and action in the face of environmental challenges. Her journey speaks to the enduring importance of ecological stewardship and the possibilities that lie ahead when we prioritize the health of our planet for future generations.

Install the LifePage App to:

(for Free) Watch Deputy Director Dr Harshwanti Bisht’s full Ecological Conservation Career Talk

₹ Do a Self Assessment on Ecological Conservation to calculate your Dream Index, which is defined as:

According to Dr Harshwanti Bisht your chances of success in Ecological Conservation is __%

Access your personalized Dream Index Report which will have all your Dream Indices sorted in descending order.

How to get into

Ecological Conservation?

If you are want to get into Ecological Conservation, start by investing in a Career Plan.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Ecological Conservation is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Ecological Conservation, what education and skills you need to succeed in Ecological Conservation, and what positives and challenges you will face in Ecological Conservation.

Finally, you will get a Career Plan stating which Courses, Certifications, Trainings and other Items you need to do in the next 7 years to become world’s best in Ecological Conservation.

LifePage Career Plan

14 hour personalized guidance program

Your LifePage Career Advisor facilitates your guided introspection so that you systematically explore various Career options to arrive at a well thought out Career choice.

Next: your Advisor helps you figure out how you will get into your chosen Career and how will you develop the skills needed for success in your Chosen Career.

LifePage Plan will not stop at saying "to become an Architect study Architecture". It will guide you on which Certifications, Trainings and Other items you need to do along with your Architecture education to become the world's best Architect.

Links for this Talk

Deputy Director Dr Harshwanti Bisht's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/drharshwantibisht

LifePage Career Talk on Ecological Conservation

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/ecological-conservation

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20180101-0001

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_cxRKedfQk

(Ecological Conservation & Research, Dr Harshwanti Bisht, Directorate of Higher Education, Joint Director, Deputy Director, Ecology, Biodiversity, Researcher, Ecosystem)

Similar Talks

Wildlife Biology

Suniti Bushan Datta
Wildlife Biologist | Varied Assignments

[ 16 years & 9 months Experience ]

Wildlife biology is the study of wild animals and how they interact with their natural surroundings.

"After completing my graduation, I worked as a wild life guide in South India.Then I did my masters in Wildlife Science from Wildlife Institute of India. I have been working as a Wildlife Biologist since 2002."

Wildlife Conservation & Science

Dr Yadvendradev Jhala
Scientist G & Senior Professor | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 25 years & 9 months Experience ]

Wildlife conservation is the practice of protecting wild plant and animal species and their habitat. Wildlife plays an important role in balancing the environment and provides stability to different natural processes of nature.

"I have done B Sc in Zoology and M Sc in Animal Physiology from University of Bombay. I then did Wildlife Conservation and Management Training Program at the Conservation and Research Center, Smithsonian Institution, USA. Post that I did Ph D in Wildlife Science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. I have also been a Post-doctoral Research Fellow at the National Zoological Park, Smithsonian Institution, USA. I have been a Lecturer of Zoology at St Xavier's College. I have also been a FAO Consultant in Sri Lanka for training Park Managers in Wildlife Science and Management. I am Scientist G and Senior professor at Wildlife Institute of India."

Wildlife Research

Roshan Puranik
Ecological & Wildlife Researcher | Global Tiger Forum

[ 7 years Experience ]

Wildlife Research covers all major aspects of the ecology, management and conservation of wild animals in natural and modified habitats. A wide variety of wildlife is used in research (including mammals, birds, reptiles, fishes, amphibians and invertebrates) in studies aimed at understanding species behaviour and ecology.

"I have Graduated in Pharmacy from PES College, Bangalore. Then done my masters in Wildlife Management from Kuvempu University, Karnataka . I have been working in the research field for the past 4 years. I have studied about Tigers for almost 3 years now. I did my Masters in Pharmacy. Work as a Research Associate at Global Tiger Forum."

Landscape Ecology

Gautam Talukdar
Scientist | Wildlife Institute Of India

[ 19 years & 7 months Experience ]

Landscape ecology is the science of studying and improving relationships between ecological processes in the environment and particular ecosystems. This is done within a variety of landscape scales, development spatial patterns, and organizational levels of research and policy

"I did my graduation from Dukhane College, Maharashtra. Then did my post graduation in Botany from the Institute of India. Finally did my PhD from Indian Institute of Remote Sensing. I am working as a Scientist in Wildlife Institute of India since 1999."

Wildlife Biology

Suresh Kumar
Scientist (E) | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 23 years & 10 months Experience ]

A wildlife biologist is someone who studies and/or manages wild animals and their habitats. Wildlife biology as an academic subject or profession is usually narrowly defined as applying to terrestrial vertebrates.

"I have done Bachelors in Chemistry, Botany & Zoology. I then did a Masters in Wildlife Science and Ph D in Olive Ridley Sea Turtle from Wildlife Institute of India. I am also researching on Amur Falcon. I am working at Wildlife Institute of India since 1995 and am a Scientist (E) there."

Ecological Research

Naveen Chandra Joshi
Project Scientist | Wildlife Institute Of India

[ 2 years Experience ]

Ecological research is the branch of biology that deals with the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings.

"I did my schooling from Kendriya Vidyalaya , Haridwar. After that I did my post graduation in Zoology from HNB Garhwal University, Srinagar. Then I did my PhD from Gurukula Kangri University, Haridwar. I am working as a Project Scientist in Wildlife Institute of India since 2015."

Marine Biology

Anant Pande
Project Scientist | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 9 years & 7 months Experience ]

Marine biology is the study of marine organisms, their behaviors and interactions with the environment. Marine biologists study biological oceanography and the associated fields of chemical, physical, and geological oceanography to understand marine organisms.

"After completing B Sc in Zoology with specialization in Fishery Biology and M Sc in Zoology with specialization in Oceanography, I started working as a Project Assistant at National Institute of Oceanography. I was also selected as a student participant in Indian Antarctic Expedition. I am Project Scientist at Wildlife Institute of India."

Wildlife Biology

Dr S P Goyal
Scientist G | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 32 years & 7 months Experience ]

Wildlife Biologists are scientists that observe and study the behaviors of animals. They frequently observe the features of certain wildlife and determine the creatures' role in specific ecosystems and/or how they interact with human beings. In addition, they will often perform various experiments to either increase our knowledge about a certain species or see how humans influence the ecosystem in question.

"After completing my B Sc, M Sc in Zoology and Ph D in Zoology, I started my research career in Thar Desert on Black Buck, Indian Gazelle and Great Indian Bustard. I worked there for quite some time and later joined Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in 1986. I worked there for 28 years and retired from the post of Scientist G. I am a Professor at WII."

Evolutionary Biology

Vishnupriya Kolipakam
Scientist C | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 5 years & 7 months Experience ]

Evolutionary biology is the subfield of biology that studies the evolutionary processes that produced the diversity of life on Earth, starting from a single common ancestor. These processes include natural selection, common descent, and speciation.

"I have done B Sc in Biotechnology) from Bharathiar University and M Sc in Bioscience from University of Leads, UK. I then did Ph D in Evolutionary Biology from Maxplanck Institute, Germany & Netherlands. I am a population geneticist with a strong interest in Evolutionary Biology, Molecular Anthropology and Conservation Genetics. For my PhD from Max Planck Institute (Nijmegen), I looked at incorporating information on genes, language and culture in a consilient framework towards a holistic approach to understanding pre-history. I used population genetic modelling, coalescent simulations, forward simulation techniques and phylogenetics to understand the pre-history of Polynesian and Dravidian Societies. My research interests are largely interdisciplinary, working at the interface of evolutionary biology, anthropology and conservation biology. I worked on the mitochondrial DNA stratigraphy of Islands of Southeast Asia (University of Leeds, United Kingdom), population genetics of northeastern hill tribes, and molecular ecology of large carnivores(National Centre for Biological Sciences , Bangalore), and the anthropological and evolutionary nature of perceptions of human wildlife conflict in semi-arid areas of India, (Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science). I have been associated with the Monitoring Tigers, Co-Predators, Prey and their Habitat project here at the Wildlife Institute. My role was to lead the genetic component of the project, wherein we used molecular techniques to understand the genetic diversity of large carnivores across the country. I continue to contribute to this aspect of the project. I am currently associated with projects investigating the population genetic structure of large carnivores, characterization of genetic diversity of Asiatic lions, and population genetic characteristics and phylogeography of the Gangetic river dolphin. My interest lies in exploring the evolutionary trajectories of biological systems, adaptive functions and their consequences, and the use of this information in making scientifically sound conservation interventions. I am specialized in Evolutionary Biology, Population Genetics, Phylogenetics, and Molecular Anthropology. I am Scientist C and Faculty at Wildlife Institute of India."

Wildlife Conservation

Disha Ramanan
Research Assistant & Content Writer | Various Assignments

[ 7 years & 1 month Experience ]

Wildlife conservation is the practice of protecting wild plant, animal species and their habitat. Wildlife plays an important role in balancing the ecosystem and provides stability to different natural processes of nature. The goal of wildlife conservation is to ensure that nature will be around for future generations to enjoy and also to recognize the importance of wildlife and wilderness for humans and other species alike.

"After my education, I started working on Wildlife Conservation. I have worked on many wildlife research projects in many states like in Assam, Uttarakhand , Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala."

Conservation Genetics

Shweta Singh
Senior Research Fellow | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 5 years & 8 months Experience ]

Conservation genetics is an interdisciplinary subfield of Population Genetics that aims to understand the dynamics of genes in populations principally to avoid extinction. Therefore, it applies genetic methods to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity.

"After completing my B Sc & M Sc in Zoology from Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Agra, I joined Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in 2013 in All India Tiger Monitoring Project. I am working in Genetic Connectivity of Large Carnivores and I am a Senior Research Fellow at WII."

Sustainability Consulting

Alok Gupta
Founder & CEO | Envecologic

[ 1 year & 7 months Experience ]

Sustainability consultancy entails providing innovative and smart strategies to businesses on how to make their products sustainable (usually in an ecological sense) for example, providing advice on engineering challenges to meet modern-day building standards and norms such as the LEED Green Building Rating System. Sustainability consultants might also advise a business on how to achieve carbon neutrality.

"After completing my education, I joined Boston Strategies International, a US-based company, where I served as Energy Economist & Country Representative. In December 2012, I started my own venture, Envecologic, which focuses on education & training, research and advisory services in the areas of environmental sustainability."

Wildlife Crime

Abdullah A Sadique
Wildlife Inspector | Bangladesh Forest Department

[ 6 years & 10 months Experience ]

Wildlife crime is an area of study typically defined from a legalistic perspective as an act in contravention of laws protecting wildlife. These crimes occur both within and across national borders and may include trafficking in wildlife or wildlife products.

"After completing my masters I started working as Wildlife Inspector to safeguard the wildlife and biodiversity. I am currently working in Bangladesh Forest Department."

Ecotoxicology

Anju Baroth
Scientist C | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 11 years & 9 months Experience ]

Ecotoxicology is the study of the effects of toxic chemicals on biological organisms, especially at the population, community, ecosystem, and biosphere levels. Ecotoxicology is a multidisciplinary field, which integrates toxicology and ecology.

"I did B Sc in Botany, Zoology & Chemistry and M Sc in Environmental Science from University of Rajasthan. I then did a Ph D in Environmental Toxicology. I joined General Electric as Toxicity Expert and worked for 2 years. I then moved to General Elastic Plastics as Life Cycle and Sustainability Expert and worked for 5 years. I am an Ecotoxicologist and Scientist C at Wildlife Institute of India."

Conservation Genetics

Dr S K Gupta
Scientist E | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 16 years & 7 months Experience ]

Conservation genetics is an interdisciplinary subfield of Population Genetics that aims to understand the dynamics of genes in populations principally to avoid extinction. Therefore, it applies genetic methods to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity.

"After completing B Sc in Botany, Zoology & Chemistry, I did Masters in Biotechnology from Meerut. Post that, I did Ph D in Wildlife Science from Saurashtra University. After that, I then worked as a Scientist at Dr Surapaneni Genomic Solutions for 2 years. I joined Wildlife Institute of India in 2008 as a Scientist C and am now I am a Scientist E."

Biodiversity Conservation

Ruchi Badola
Scientist G & Senior Professor | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 25 years & 7 months Experience ]

Conservation biology is the management of nature and of Earth's biodiversity with the aim of protecting species, their habitats, and ecosystems from excessive rates of extinction and the erosion of biotic interactions.

"After completing B A & M A in Economics, I did Ph D in Economics from Jiwaji University. After that, I joined Wildlife Institute of India in 1993 and have been there for 25 years now. I am Scientist G & Senior Professor there."

High Altitude Ecology

S Sathyakumar
Scientist G | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 30 years & 7 months Experience ]

Ecology & Conservation is the branch of ecology and evolutionary biology that deals with the preservation and management of biodiversity and natural resources. It's goal is to find ways to conserve species, habitats, landscapes, and ecosystems as quickly, as efficiently, and as economically as possible.

"After completing B Sc in Zoology and M Sc in Wildlife Biology, I joined Wildlife Institute of India in 1988 as a Research Fellow. I then decided to pursue Ph D in Wildlife Science. I have experience of studying animals in Himachal Pradesh, J&K, and Sikkim & Trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh. I am a Scientist G at WII."

Natural Resource Management

K Ramesh
Scientist | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 23 years & 7 months Experience ]

Natural resource management refers to the management of natural resources such as land, water, soil, plants and animals, with a particular focus on how management affects the quality of life for both present and future generations.

"I have a Master's degree in Wildlife Biology from AVC College (Bharathidasan University), Tamil Nadu and a Ph D degree in Forest Ecology and Environment from Wildlife Institute of India (a Research Center of Forest Research Institute University, Dehradun). I have been working with WII since 1995; earlier as Research Fellow and joined the faculty in 2008. Prior to joining the faculty, I was with the World Pheasant Association-UK as a Post Doctoral Fellow for four years (2005-2008), undertaking a collaborative research project with WII on pheasants and partridges in northwest India. My professional interests include Landscape Ecology, Remote Sensing and GIS, Quantitative Methods, Species Distribution Models, Biostatistics, Radio-Telemetry, Wildlife Population Estimation and Monitoring. I have research and conservation experiences on birds and mammals of the Western Himalaya, Shivalik-Terai Landscape and Central India. Presently involved in diversity of projects that include Reintroduction and Monitoring of Tiger Population in Panna Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh), Conservation Breeding and Reintroduction of Western Tragopan in Himachal Pradesh, Application of Wireless Sensor Networks for Forest and People Protection, Integration UAV (Drone) for wildlife research and management, and Climate Change Effects on Riverine Forests and Indicator Species along the Ganges. I have been a member of IUCN/SSC/Galliformes Specialist Group, International Association for Landscape Ecology, International Society for Restoration Ecology, etc. In addition to Gold Medal for my Graduation as well as Post-Graduation Courses, I received prestigious Distinguished Foreign Scholar Award by the US Regional Association of the International Association for Landscape Ecology and NASA-MSU Professional Enhancement Award by National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and Michigan State University, USA. I have traveled widely and am interested in sports."

Plant Ecology & Conservation

Dr G S Rawat
Dean | Wildlife Institute of India

[ 34 years & 9 months Experience ]

Plant ecology is a subdiscipline of ecology which studies the distribution and abundance of plants, the effects of environmental factors upon the abundance of plants, and the interactions among and between plants and other organisms. Conservation is the preservation or efficient use of resources in an efficient or ethical manner.

"I did Bachelors and Masters in Botany from Kumaon University, Nainital. I also did Ph D in Taxonomy & Ethnobotany from the same college. I taught Plant Ecology and Taxonomy at Kumaon University. I also served at Botanical Survey of India for some time. I joined Wildlife Institute of India in 1986 as a Professor and have held various positions at the Institute since then. I am Dean at Wildlife Institute of India."

Ecology & Conservation

Raman Kumar
Ecologist | Nature Science Initiative

[ 17 years & 10 months Experience ]

Ecology is the branch of biology which studies the interactions among organisms and their environment. Objects of study include interactions of organisms with each other and with abiotic components of their environment.

"After completing my graduation from HNB Garhwal University, I did post graduation from FRI, Dehradun. After that, I did my PhD from Manipal University. In 2001, I started working as an ecologist and since then I have been working for various institutions and projects."

Sustainability & LCA

Anju Baroth
Lead Engineer | General Electric

[ 9 years Experience ]

Sustainability is the process of change, in which the exploitation of resources, the direction of investments, the orientation of technological development and institutional change are all in harmony and enhance both current and future potential to meet human needs and aspirations. Life-cycle assessment is a technique to assess environmental impacts associated with all the stages of a product's life from raw material extraction through materials processing, manufacture, distribution, use, repair and maintenance, and disposal or recycling.

"I did B Sc in Botany, Zoology & Chemistry and M Sc in Environmental Science from University of Rajasthan. I then did a Ph D in Environmental Toxicology. I joined General Electric as Toxicity Expert and worked for 2 years. I then moved to General Elastic Plastics as Life Cycle and Sustainability Expert and worked for 5 years. I am an Ecotoxicologist and Scientist C at Wildlife Institute of India."