Home / Environment / India Loses Wildlife Icon HS Panwar
India Loses Wildlife Icon HS Panwar
4 Jun
Summary
- HS Panwar, a Padma Bhushan recipient, shaped modern wildlife conservation.
- He pioneered scientific protected area management in India.
- Panwar founded the Wildlife Institute of India and mentored leaders.
India has lost a pivotal figure in wildlife conservation with the recent passing of HS Panwar on May 29, 2026. A Padma Bhushan recipient, Panwar was instrumental in shaping contemporary conservation practices through his roles as former director of Project Tiger and founder director of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
Panwar championed scientific protected area management, a key factor in India's conservation successes. His leadership during Project Tiger's formative years and his innovative species recovery programs, such as saving the barasingha in Kanha National Park, underscore his enduring impact.
The Wildlife Institute of India, established by Panwar, has become a global center of excellence for wildlife research and training. He was also a dedicated mentor, inspiring countless conservation professionals who continue his legacy today.
