Dr B M Arora : President, Association of Indian Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians from 2011 to 2021.
Dr. Bal Mukund Arora (1942–2011) was a renowned wildlife veterinarian and academician with a career spanning over five decades. After earning his Master’s and Ph.D. in Veterinary Medicine, he pioneered wildlife research and conservation as Principal Scientist and Head of the Centre for Wildlife Conservation at IVRI, Bareilly, introducing India’s first National Diploma in Zoo & Wildlife Management in 1995. As Director of the National Zoological Park, New Delhi (1990–1993), he contributed significantly to captive wildlife healthcare. A founder of the Association of Zoo & Wildlife Veterinarians, Dr. Arora served on international bodies like IUCN and authored over 100 research papers and 10 books on wildlife health. A Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, his legacy continues to inspire veterinarians worldwide.
Dr Apurba Chakraborty: President, Association of Indian Zoo and Wildlife veterinarian from 2018-2024
Dr. Apurba Chakraborty, a renowned veterinary pathologist with over 40 years of experience, has significantly contributed to wildlife health, teaching, and research. He mentored students, published over 160 scientific papers, earned a patent, and served as Director of Research at Assam Agricultural University for 10 years. A recipient of prestigious awards like the Pranimitra Award, he has contributed to conservation programs such as the Pygmy Hog Conservation Project and authored the Colour Atlas of Diseases & Disorders of Wildlife. As President of the Association of Indian Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians (2022–2024), he advanced wildlife health initiatives. His work spans diagnostics, zoonotic diseases, and capacity-building programs.