Wildlife Institute of India

The Wildlife Institute of India mourns the passing of Dr. H. S. Panwar, our Founder Director, whose vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment laid the foundation of wildlife science and conservation in India.

A pioneering conservationist, Dr. Panwar helped shape a scientific approach to wildlife management, inspired generations of conservation professionals, and strengthened the nation's resolve to protect its natural heritage. His contributions extended far beyond institutions, leaving an enduring impact on India's wildlife, protected areas, and conservation policy.

As we bid farewell to a remarkable mentor and leader, we remember with gratitude his wisdom, dedication, and lifelong service to conservation.

His legacy will continue to guide and inspire us.

May his noble soul rest in peace.

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore

On the occasion of World Dugong Day Celebration, the CAMPA-Dugong Recovery Programme organized a series of outreach activities to sensitize young students and researchers about dugongs and their habitats. The programme was inaugurated by Mr. Maria Christu Raja, Registrar. This was followed by a presentation by Dr. J.A. Johnson, who highlighted the achievements of the Dugong Recovery Programme over the past ten years.

Dr. Balaji, Director of OMCAR Foundation, delivered an inspiring talk emphasizing the importance of community involvement in achieving successful marine conservation programmes. The award winners were felicitated by Dr. Ruchi Badola, Dean and Faculty of Wildlife Science.

At the end of the programme, Ms. Chinmaya Ghanekar presented the vote of thanks to the dignitaries and participants.

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore Endangered Species Recovery Program- Dugong

🏜️ NEW STUDY FROM THE THAR DESERT 🐦🌾

How is irrigation changing bird communities in India’s arid grasslands?

Our new study shows that while irrigation increases bird richness and abundance in the Thar Desert, it also causes major ecological shifts beneath the surface.

💧 Irrigated croplands supported more birds and more species overall…

⚠️ …but these gains were largely driven by the spread of generalist and mesic species, alongside declines in desert specialists uniquely adapted to arid ecosystems.

Species such as bulbuls, doves and wagtails increased in irrigated landscapes, while many desert insectivores and grassland birds declined sharply.

This suggests that irrigation-driven agricultural intensification is leading to “ecological homogenization” — where unique desert bird communities are gradually replaced by widespread, adaptable species.

🌾 Interestingly, low-intensity non-irrigated croplands still retained some conservation value and may function as secondary habitats for several desert birds.

📌 Key conservation takeaways:
✅ Protect natural grasslands
✅ Avoid irrigation expansion in ecologically sensitive areas
✅ Maintain biodiversity-friendly low-intensity agro-pastoral systems

📄 Authors: Varun Kher & Dr. Sutirtha Dutta

🔗 Paper link : https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1n7Dc_3C0pE9GN or https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014019632600087X



Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India

Excited to share our latest publication!

We report the first record of the Rusty-spotted Cat ( Prionailurus rubiginosus ) from the National Chambal Sanctuary—a significant addition to its known distribution, highlighting hidden biodiversity in a well-known landscape!

https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.10243.18.5.28988-28990



Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore @

https://www.currentscience.ac.in/Volumes/130/10/0933.pdf

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore

On the occasion of 44th Foundation Day and International Day for Biological Diversity, at the consultative session with the Head of Institutions, Dean, Faculty of Wildlife Sciences, Dr.Ruchi Badola, laid out WII’s vision, mission and mandate. From pioneering research and global collaborations to grassroots conservation and capacity building, we are committed to safeguarding India’s biodiversity.



Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore

On the occasion of WII Foundation Day, former Directors of the Institute engaged with WII faculty in a thoughtful discussion on the way forward. Their insights, shaped by decades of leadership and institutional wisdom, offered a valuable vision for strengthening WII’s future in wildlife science and conservation.

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore

As WII marks its Foundation Day, we pause to honour the journey of an institution built on science, service and commitment to India’s wildlife. A profound interaction with former Directors enriched the occasion, as their wisdom, memory and vision reminded us that institutions grow through continuity, conviction, equal opportunity and collective purpose.

Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore

On the occasion of 44th Foundation Day, the Wildlife Institute of India convened Directors and Heads of Institutions of Dehradun for a strategic dialogue on “Wildlife Vision for Viksit Bharat@2047.” The programme featured institutional presentations and open deliberations, strengthening collaborative resolve for the future of wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection in India.





Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India Wildlife Institute of India SACON Coimbatore