Indian Conservationists Win 2026 Whitley Awards for Habitat Protection
Whitley award to two indian conservationists
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Barkha Subba and Parveen Shaikh, Indian conservationists, have been awarded the 2026 Whitley Awards for their efforts in protecting the Himalayan Salamander's habitat and community-led initiatives for the Indian Skimmer on the Chambal River. Their work addresses critical environmental challenges amid urbanization and climate change.
- 01Barkha Subba will focus on protecting seven critical breeding sites for the Himalayan Salamander.
- 02Parveen Shaikh's initiative has increased the survival rate of Indian Skimmer nests from 14% to 27%.
- 03The Himalayan Salamander is threatened by habitat loss due to urbanization and climate change.
- 04India hosts over 90% of the global population of Indian Skimmers, which are vulnerable due to river habitat degradation.
- 05Both conservationists aim to engage local communities in sustainable practices and habitat protection.
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Indian conservationists Barkha Subba and Parveen Shaikh have received the prestigious 2026 Whitley Awards for their significant contributions to wildlife conservation. Barkha Subba, affiliated with the Federation of Societies for Environmental Protection in Darjeeling, will lead efforts to protect the Himalayan Salamander, focusing on seven critical breeding sites. She aims to combat habitat loss caused by urbanization, tourism, and invasive species, while promoting sustainable land use among local communities. The Himalayan Salamander, endemic to India, Nepal, and Bhutan, has seen its habitat decline due to climate change and economic pressures on tea plantations. Meanwhile, Parveen Shaikh, a scientist with the Bombay Natural History Society, has been recognized for her 'Guardians of the Skimmer' initiative on the Chambal River. This program has successfully increased the survival rate of Indian Skimmer nests and fostered local stewardship for these birds. With over 90% of Indian Skimmers residing in India, their conservation is vital as river habitats continue to degrade globally. Both conservationists plan to expand their initiatives to other key river sites in India, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices to protect these unique ecosystems.
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The conservation efforts led by Barkha Subba and Parveen Shaikh will significantly benefit local ecosystems and communities by promoting sustainable practices and increasing awareness about the importance of protecting these species.
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