Author: smartweb

We are delighted to present the Appreciation Award for “Best Lady Veterinarian,” honouring women veterinarians who have made exemplary contributions to the field of “Wildlife Health.” This prestigious award recognizes the dedication, innovation, and impact of women professionals in safeguarding the health and welfare of wildlife, whether through research, clinical practice, or conservation efforts.

Women veterinarians have long played a pivotal role in addressing the complex challenges of wildlife health, from diagnosing and treating diseases in free-ranging and captive populations to developing sustainable strategies for species conservation. This award celebrates those who have gone above and beyond in their professional endeavours, setting benchmarks of excellence and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.

By recognizing the achievements of outstanding women in wildlife health, this award aims to highlight the importance of diversity, representation, and leadership in the field of veterinary science and wildlife conservation. It also serves as a platform to encourage and empower the next generation of women veterinarians to contribute meaningfully to wildlife care and conservation.

The Appreciation Award for Best Young Researcher in Wildlife Sciences is a prestigious recognition bestowed upon an exceptional individual who has made outstanding contributions to the field. This award acknowledges the recipient’s groundbreaking research, innovative ideas, and dedication to advancing our understanding of wildlife sciences. The award is presented to a young researcher who has demonstrated exceptional promise, creativity, and passion for their work, and has shown significant potential to become a leading figure in their field. The recipient’s research should have a significant impact on the advancement of wildlife sciences, and demonstrate a clear understanding of the complex relationships between wildlife, ecosystems, and human societies. The award is a testament to the recipient’s hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence, and serves as a motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in wildlife sciences. By recognizing and rewarding outstanding young researchers, this award aims to inspire a new generation of scientists and conservationists to pursue careers in wildlife sciences, and to contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of wildlife populations and ecosystems.

We are proud to introduce the Distinguished Award for Excellence in “Wildlife Pathology,” a prestigious recognition honouring individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the study, diagnosis, and management of diseases in wild animals. This award celebrates those whose pioneering work has significantly enhanced our understanding of wildlife health, playing a vital role in advancing conservation, biodiversity preservation, and ecosystem resilience.

Wildlife pathology is a cornerstone of wildlife conservation, addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing biodiversity today. From combating emerging infectious diseases and zoonotic threats to investigating complex health issues in endangered species, wildlife pathologists are at the forefront of safeguarding the delicate balance of nature. Their work spans diverse areas, including disease surveillance, post-mortem investigations, health monitoring, and the development of strategies for mitigating disease risks in free-ranging and captive wildlife populations.

This award seeks to recognize the tireless efforts, innovative research, and unwavering commitment of individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing this specialized field. It honors their contributions not only to wildlife health but also to the broader understanding of the interconnectedness between animal, human, and environmental health – a principle embodied in the “One Health” approach.

By celebrating excellence in wildlife pathology, we aim to inspire current and future professionals to engage in this critical field and emphasize the essential role it plays in global conservation efforts. Through their work, wildlife pathologists help us better protect and sustain our planet’s irreplaceable biodiversity, ensuring a healthier and more harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Prof. (Dr.) Janki Mohan Nigam, a renowned expert in veterinary surgery, was born on October 5, 1938, in Satna, Madhya Pradesh. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry in 1960 and Master’s degree in Veterinary Surgery in 1963 from M.P. College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Mhow.

Dr. Nigam’s illustrious career spans over four decades, with significant contributions to veterinary education, research, and extension services. He has held various academic and administrative positions in prestigious institutions in India and abroad, including  Demonstrator in Surgery at College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Mhow; Assistant Professor, Obstetrics & Gynaecology at College of Veterinary Sciences, Hisar; Associate Professor, Surgery & Radiology at Punjab Agricultural University, Hisar Campus; Professor, Surgery at Punjab Agricultural University, Hisar Campus; Dean, College of Veterinary Sciences, and Director, Student Welfare at Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar and  Founder Dean, College of Veterinary Sciences, Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidhyalaya (HPKVV), Palampur. Dr Nigam has the honour of being associated with Academics, Research, Extension & Administrative bodies of Indian Veterinary Research Institute Izatnagar, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Rajendra Agricultural University, Patna, Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agriculture & Technology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Jabalpur and the Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University. 

He was a member of the first executive committee of Veterinary Council of India and also the member of Committee of the council and played an active role in development of the curriculum for B.V.Sc &A.H which has been implemented in all the colleges in India. Dr. Nigam was  the Founder Secretary of the Indian Society of Veterinary Surgery and later held the office of the President for two tenures.

Dr. Nigam’s outstanding contributions to veterinary science and education have been recognized with numerous awards and honours, including Fellow of National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fellow of National Academy of Veterinary Sciences, Fellow of Indian Society of Veterinary Surgery, Fellow of National Conservation Society, ICAR Team Research Award, R Swaminathan Award, S.J. Angelo Memorial Award of Indian Veterinary Association. He travelled extensively to several countries like Denmark, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, England, Greece, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, USA & Canada and contributed in developing capacities in the field of veterinary surgery.

Dr. Nigam published over 275 scientific papers in national and international journals, with significant contributions to small animal, large animal and wild animal surgery. He has guided more than 20 students for their M.V.Sc & Ph.D programs in different fields of Veterinary Surgery & Reproduction.  Dr. Nigam was known for his expertise and contribution in animal health, his dedication, humility, sportsman spirit and was also popular amongst his friends and colleagues.

The Prof. (Dr.) J.M. Nigam Memorial Award for Excellence in ‘Wildlife Surgery, Anaesthesiology, Radiology & Imaging” is a testament to his enduring legacy in the field of veterinary surgery and education. This award will inspire future generations of veterinarians and researchers to follow in his footsteps and make significant contributions to the field.

We are honored to introduce the Dr. Vaidyanathan Krishnamurthy Memorial Award, celebrating exemplary contributions to the field of “Elephant Health Management.”

Dr. Vaidyanathan Krishnamurthy (1929–2002), popularly known as Dr. K, the “Elephant Man” or “Elephant Doctor” (யானை டாக்டர்), was an iconic Indian veterinarian, conservationist, and elephant expert. Over a distinguished career, he governed the renowned Mudumalai and Theppakadu elephant camps, revolutionizing elephant care and conservation in India.

A graduate of Madras Veterinary College (1951) and recipient of a P.G. Diploma in Animal Husbandry from IVRI (1966), Dr. Krishnamurthy was a pioneer in the establishment of Elephant Rejuvenation Camps, a system that has become a cornerstone of captive elephant welfare. His expertise extended to capturing 160 wild elephants, rearing 70 elephant calves in captivity, and training professionals in elephant conservation and management.

As a member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Asian Elephant Specialist Group, Dr. Krishnamurthy was a global authority on elephant conservation. His extensive writings on conservation and elephant physiology continue to inspire and guide efforts in this critical field. In recognition of his remarkable contributions, he was honored with the Venu Menon Life-Time Achievement Award in 2001 Shri R. Venkataraman, Former President of India.

This award serves as a tribute to Dr. Krishnamurthy’s enduring legacy and aims to recognize outstanding achievements in elephant health and conservation.

The Dr. B.M. Arora Memorial Award for “Veterinary Excellence in Zoo Animal Health,” honors the legacy of one of India’s most distinguished wildlife veterinarians and academicians.

Born on August 15, 1942, Dr. Bal Mukund Arora dedicated over five decades of his life to advancing the fields of wildlife health and conservation. A visionary leader, Dr. Arora pioneered numerous initiatives, including the establishment of India’s first National Diploma in Zoo & Wildlife Management at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, in 1995. As the Director of the National Zoological Park, New Delhi, and Head of the Centre for Wildlife Conservation at IVRI, he made significant contributions to captive wildlife healthcare, research, and management.

Dr. Arora’s illustrious career includes serving on esteemed national and international platforms such as IUCN’s Species Survival Commission and the Central Zoo Authority. His founding of the Association of Indian Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians in 1991 cemented his legacy as a trailblazer in zoo and wildlife veterinary sciences. With over 100 research publications and 10 books, his work on wildlife breeding, nutrition, disease surveillance, and health monitoring continues to inspire generations of veterinarians and conservationists.

This award is a tribute to Dr. Arora’s tireless commitment to wildlife research, education, and conservation, and it aims to recognize exemplary contributions in zoo animal health and welfare.

The Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Wildlife Health and Management is a prestigious honour bestowed upon an individual who has made significant and lasting contributions to the field of wildlife health and management. This award recognizes a lifetime of dedication, passion, and commitment to advancing the understanding, conservation medicine, and health management of wildlife populations and ecosystem conservation. The recipient of this award has to have demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and expertise, and made a profound impact in the field

through their research, teaching, and service. Their work would have improved our understanding of wildlife health, behavior, and ecology, and informed effective conservation and management strategies. The recipient must also have mentored and inspired countless students, colleagues, and professionals, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the field for generations to come. 

The Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Wildlife Health and Management is a testament to the recipient’s tireless efforts, unwavering commitment, and outstanding contributions to the field. It serves as a celebration of their achievements and a recognition of their enduring impact on the world of wildlife health and management. By honouring individuals who have made such significant contributions, this award aims to inspire future generations of wildlife professionals, promote excellence in the field, and acknowledge the critical importance of wildlife health and management in maintaining healthy ecosystems and conserving biodiversity.