While it’s heartbreaking to come across stories of wildlife struggling to survive in a world that seems to be moving against them, there are still incredible people and organisations, doing their part in making a real difference.
From saving the charismatic elephant to protecting the elusive snow leopards, here are ten inspiring stories that remind us that even in the toughest situations, proactive action is never gone in vain.
1. Vivek Menon — Championing elephant corridors
Elephants are sociable beings that look at us the same way we look at puppies. But their nature does not guarantee zero human-wildlife conflict. Vivek Menon, co-founder of the Wildlife Trust of India, has been a relentless force behind securing vital elephant corridors across the country. By linking habitats across 11 states, Menon’s work helps elephants move safely, reducing human-wildlife conflict.
His efforts make sure that these magnificent animals can roam freely without disrupting local communities. This year, Sigur Plateau was designated as an elephant corridor by the Supreme Court, thanks to his extensive research.
Know more about his work, click here.
2. Dr Tsewang Namgail — Snow leopards and sustainable livelihoods
In the evergrowing need to search for ways for wildlife and humans to co-exist peacefully, Dr Tsewang Namgail and his Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust have found a way to do exactly that. By offering innovative solutions like livestock insurance and eco-tourism, Namgail is reducing conflicts between villagers and the big cats.
His Himalayan Homestay Programme lets visitors experience Ladakhi culture while funding conservation. This initiative benefits both the snow leopards and the local community, making it a conservation model that goes hand-in-hand with sustainable living.
Know more about his work, click here.
3. Shatrunjay Pratap Singh — Protecting Jawai’s leopards
Shatrunjay Pratap Singh swapped a career in winemaking for one focused on saving Jawai’s leopards. Known as the world’s leopard capital, Jawai is a hotspot for the big cats. Singh has fought to protect their habitat from destructive mining projects, and developed sustainable tourism to help fund conservation efforts.
His work has created a safe haven for leopards and other wildlife. Thanks to his efforts, and the support of the local community, Jawai now thrives as both a leopard sanctuary and a tourism hotspot.
To know more about his work, click here.
4. Padmaja Rathore — Rewilding Jawai
What do you get when you combine sustainable tourism, wildlife conservation and community enrichment? Padmaja Rathore’s Rewilding Jawai project, and her homestay Bagheera’s Camp, is a shining example of how conservation and community empowerment can go hand in hand.
Located in Rajasthan’s Godwar region, this project focuses on restoring Jawai’s ecosystems and protecting endangered species. Beyond wildlife, Rathore is working with local tribes to help them engage with conservation, improving both their livelihoods and their connection to nature. Her work has revitalised local water systems and helped endangered species like leopards thrive, making a profound impact on the environment and the people who call it home.
To know more about her work, click here.
5. Jai Dhar Gupta — India’s first private biosphere reserve
Jai Dhar Gupta’s vision of a self-sustaining and thriving ecosystem became a reality with the creation of the Rajaji Raghati Biosphere. Inspired by the beauty of nature and films like Avatar, Gupta restored 132 native species in Uttarakhand.
The biosphere is a model of minimal human intervention, where the focus is on nurturing nature’s balance — no vehicles, no plastic, just pure, undisturbed wildlife. Gupta’s rewilding efforts have attracted even leopards and elephants, proving that when humans step back, nature has a chance to flourish.
To know more about his work, click here.
6. Manoj Gogoi — Lifesaver of Kaziranga
For nearly two decades, Manoj Gogoi has been a lifeline for Kaziranga’s wildlife, especially during the devastating annual floods. He has rescued over 6,000 animals, including pregnant deer, wild boars, and leopards.
His organisation, Naturalists for Rehabilitation of Snakes and Birds (NRSB), is dedicated to rescuing stranded wildlife. His tireless dedication, often at great personal risk, has saved countless animals, ensuring that Kaziranga’s endangered species continue to survive and thrive in one of India’s most vital national parks.
To know more about his work, click here.
7. Nabam Bapu & Likha Nana — 3D printing for conservation
In a unique blend of tradition and technology, Nabam Bapu and Likha Nana are changing the way we look at tribal attire. They’ve used eco-friendly 3D printing to replicate endangered animal parts — like tiger jaws and hornbill beaks — instead of using real animal parts.
Their startup, Arunachal Ivory and Ornaments, has helped protect endangered species like tigers and leopards, while also preserving cultural practices. By combining innovation with respect for tradition, Bapu and Nana are showing how technology can play a critical role in conservation.
To know more about their work, click here.
8. Valiance Solutions — AI in wildlife conservation
Valiance Solutions’ ‘Wildlife Eye’ is bringing in real change in wildlife conservation with AI. Launched in Maharashtra’s Chandrapur, this platform uses smart cameras to track tigers and send real-time alerts to villagers and forest officials.
The technology has already prevented numerous potential conflicts, helping ensure that both humans and tigers can coexist peacefully. With over 650 alerts in just nine months and no reported attacks, this cutting-edge solution is proof that integrated AI in conversation efforts can make a significant impact.
To know more about their work, click here.
9. Luv Shekhawat — Sustainable jungle retreat
Luv Shekhawat’s Utsav Camp in Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve is a model of sustainable tourism. With guidance from his 90-year-old grandfather, a former forest officer, Luv created a retreat that emphasises eco-friendly practices while providing a wildlife experience like no other.
Powered by solar energy, and built with local materials like bamboo and terracotta, Utsav Camp lets guests experience the jungle without leaving a carbon footprint. This blend of conservation and hospitality is setting the standard for responsible tourism in India.
To know more about his work, click here.
10. Parbati Barua — The queen of elephants
Parbati Barua, known as India’s first female mahout, made history when she was awarded the Padma Shri for her work with elephants in 2024. Growing up in Assam, Barua developed a deep love for elephants, inspired by her father, an elephant expert.
In 1972, she became the first woman to step into the role of mahout, defying gender norms. Over the years, her bond with elephants has become somewhat of a legend. She continues to rescue and train elephants, and her work has helped manage rogue tuskers across multiple states. Parbati’s legacy as a “Queen of Elephants” continues to inspire both women and wildlife lovers alike.
To know more about her work, click here.
Edited by Arunava Banerjee
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