Mumbai: Parveen Shaikh, a distinguished scientist with the Bombay Natural history Society (BNHS), has been honoured with the prestigious Sanctuary Wildlife service Award 2025 for her exceptional contributions to wildlife conservation. Her award-winning work centers on engaging local communities living around the National Chambal Sanctuary to protect the Indian Skimmer, an endangered and rapidly declining bird species.

Recognizing a Conservation Champion

The Sanctuary Wildlife Awards, instituted by Sanctuary Asia, celebrate individuals and organizations making remarkable efforts to protect India’s wildlife and natural ecosystems. This year, Parveen Shaikh stood out for her commitment to bridging the gap between scientific conservation efforts and community participation.

Community-Led Conservation for the indian Skimmer

The Indian Skimmer, known for its distinctive black-and-white plumage and long orange bill, is listed as Endangered due to habitat degradation, nesting disturbances, and declining river ecosystems. The species is primarily found along the Chambal River, making the National Chambal Sanctuary a critical habitat.

Parveen Shaikh’s conservation model involves:

• Educating and training local communities to monitor nests and report disturbances
• Promoting eco-friendly livelihoods to reduce pressure on nesting sites
• Conducting scientific surveys to track population trends and threats
• Collaborating with forest authorities to enhance protection measures

Her work has led to increased nesting success rates and improved awareness among villagers, boatmen, and other stakeholders who rely on the river for their daily needs.

A Model for Future Conservation Projects

Shaikh’s approach highlights the importance of grassroots involvement in safeguarding threatened species. By empowering local communities, her initiatives help ensure long-term, sustainable conservation outcomes—an approach widely regarded as essential in India’s diverse ecological landscape.

BNHS and Sanctuary Asia Applaud Her Efforts

Both BNHS and Sanctuary Asia praised her commitment, noting that her model could serve as a blueprint for conservation programs across riverine ecosystems in India. Fellow researchers and conservationists emphadata-sized that her work comes at a crucial time when many river-dependent species data-face increasing threats from pollution, sand mining, and climate change.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The award not only celebrates Shaikh’s achievements but also underscores the vital role played by scientists working on the ground to protect India’s biodiversity. Her recognition is expected to inspire young conservationists to pursue careers in wildlife research and community-based conservation.

 

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