Staff Members

Bharat S.

Sunil Bhavsar

Name of Staff: - Nirmala Omprakash Barure,
Educational Qualification:-M. Sc. (Mathematics) M. Lib. Sc.
Department: -Library
Designation: - Librarian
Past and present (50 words): - Before joining BNHS in 2007, she worked for 12 years in the various academic institutions mainly Engineering colleges, among which in two organizations worked as a founder member. From the beginning headed the library Department independently and known for taking new initiatives. In 2007 joined BNHS so far involved in Library Management and administration, Preservation and conservation of Rare books, Taken up the work related to Institutional Archives, Writing proposals for funding, Arranged Five Rare books exhibition and one art display, co-ordinated with the editors in publishing coffee table book, promote and volunteer organisational activities/events. Provided prompt and efficient reference service to the members extended various new services. Active role in ICC (internal Complaints Committee) of the BNHS.

Saurabh is a community officer, working for Satpuda Landscape Tiger Programme (SLTP), with focus on the assessment and monitoring of tiger population in Bor buffer and Bor-Melghat corridor and corridor conservation through community participation. Under SLTP, he was also involved in activities such as women sensitization programmes, improving chulhas, school pr ogrammes and surveys regarding the consumption of firewood in the villages surrounding Tadoba and Bor and understanding the Mahua flower economics in the village.

Saurabh joined BNHS in 2007 as a volunteer and was involved in various activities since then. He has a bachelor’s and master’s in Environmental Science. In 2012, he joined BNHS as an Education Assistant in the Conservation department under SLTP. He gained experience in various spheres such as school awareness programmes, biogas repair, livelihood activities and socio-economic surveys.

Additionally, he was part of the team for the Assessment of Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) – Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve Corridor, Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) - Bor Tiger Reserve Corridor & Bor Tiger Reserve – Melghat Tiger Reserve Corridor.

Areas of interest/expertise:

·       community awareness

·       education programme

·       camera trapping

Benjamin Franklin

Vibhuti is the head of the Publications department. She has been with BNHS since 1997 and currently works as Copy and Production Editor of JBNHS, Co-editor of Hornbill and Copy Editor of BNHS books.

Sathiyaselvam has over 20 years of research experience in wetland ecology, bird migration, avian disease monitoring and management planning for the wetlands. He has worked in various ecological and environmental impact assessments and biodiversity studies across the country. Having been trained by United States Geological Survey (USGS) in satellite tracking of waterbirds, Sathiyaselvam has independently deployed 48 satellite transmitters on nine waterbird species.

He has to his credit about 50 publications including scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, popular articles and scientific reports. He has also authored three books. He is one of the members of the Editorial Board for EGREE Newsletter and Biodiversity Field Guide brought out by the State Biodiversity Board of Andhra Pradesh.

Sathiyaselvam initiated the Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Programme in association with Tamil Nadu Forest Department, and Fishing Cat and Whale Shark Conservation programme with Andhra Pradesh Forest Department. While the turtle conservation programme is in progress, the Fishing Cat and Whale Shark conservation initiative has been taken up in a big way by the state forest department. The global status of the Fishing Cat has been revised and the Whale Shark conservation initiative has attained international recognition.

Sathiyaselvam has worked as a Field Biologist with the Forest Department of Tamil Nadu and as Conservation Biologist in the project ‘Mainstreaming biodiversity conservation into production sector’, implemented by the Government of India-UNDP-GEF and Government of Andhra Pradesh.

He has played an advisory role, motivating many industries towards biodiversity conservation and continues to be involved in community mobilization towards biodiversity conservation.  Presently BNHS has deputed him to the Central Asian Flyway Secretariat, established in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, to provide scientific and technical inputs to the secretariat for the conservation migratory birds.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• wetland ecology
• bird migration

Nita Shah

Nandkishor Dudhe joined BNHS in 2014; he is a post graduate in Environmental Science and is currently working on the project of the Environmental Information Awareness Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme (EIACP), the Programme Centre (PC) and Resource Partner (RP) on Avian Ecology at the BNHS (BNHS-EIACP). The BNHS-EIACP project provides information related to Avian ecology to researchers, decision makers, scientists, etc. across the country. He is instrumental in bringing out Buceros, the newsletter of BNHS-EIACP, and developing a mobile application that is related to avian ecology. Earlier as Research Assistant in the Important Bird Area (IBA) Programme, he was involved in the making of the book Important Bird and Biodiversity Area In India (IBA).

Reshma is a zoologist with BNHS, currently pursuing her doctoral studies, with intertidal areas of Maharashtra as her focus area. She is interested in understanding marine invertebrate taxonomy, diversity and ecology. Her doctoral study is aimed at studying species composition and distribution of polyclad flatworms from the intertidal areas of Maharashtra.

Since she joined BNHS in 2011, Reshma has been involved in environment impact assessments, marine biodiversity assessments and identifying ecologically important coastal areas in Maharashtra.

Areas of interest/expertise:

·       taxonomy

·       marine biodiversity

·       ecology

Sandesh is from Guhagar, Ratnagiri graduated from Siddharth College, Mumbai. 

Sandesh is working since 1998 in Marketing Department. 

Mr. Pravinsingh Pardeshi IAS (Retd)

Life Member. Former Chairman, BNHS Conservation Sub-committee. Fighting since past 30 years to protect the species in Satpuda landscape including forest owlet,wild buffalo and tiger. Member of Maharashtra state Board for Wildlife and served on Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife and Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board. Designed and implementing a community-based conservation model in Satpuda landscape forests like Pench, Melghat, Kanha, Satpuda Navegaon-Nagzira and Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve.

Asif

Working since 2015

B.Sc. in Chemistry and M.L.I.Sc.
working with BNHS from 2nd May 2014. Expertise in Library management.
Email: a.pimpalkar@bnhs.org

She has a background in biodiversity and wildlife conservation and has worked on the long-term monitoring of mammals at the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra for three years. Currently, she is part of the Avian Ecology team at BNHS's EIACP Centre, where she plays a pivotal role in the publication of the Buceros newsletter, the organization of workshops and bird-watching trails, and the creation of bird posters promoting avian conservation and awareness. She is highly interested in the conservation of biodiversity and wilderness areas in Mumbai and its adjacent regions.

Email: n.girkar@bnhs.org

Sonali has been involved in the production of the Society's publications.

Areas on interest/expertise:

·         Editing, proof reading and colour corrections.

Vice President

Charandas

Bala

Sujit

P. Kurusamy

Lesser Florican Project

Rajendra joined BNHS in 1994 and is involved in a number of research projects such as mangrove nursery and plantation at Gujarat and Maharashtra; Crab Culture at Jaigad, Ratnagiri; intertidal ecological studies across Maharashtra and Gujarat coast and macrobenthic sampling in Thane Creek. He also participates as a resource person in the nature trails and camps conducted by the Society’s Conservation Education Centre in Mumbai.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• Intertidal and Mangrove Ecology
• Crab Culture
• Environment Education

Sanchita is involved in the designing of BNHS publications since September 2014. Her expertise lies in the area of layout designing.

As an education officer, Priyadarshini’s work at CEC includes conducting trails at BNHS Nature Reserve, coordinating the online-hybrid courses run by BNHS and conducting environmental awareness sessions for school students.

She has a bachelor’s in Biotechnology and master’s in Environmental Sciences. Before joining BNHS in February 2017, she worked as a Biology lecturer.

Areas of interest/expertise:

·       environmental awareness

·       general biodiversity

Working since May 2007

Jitender joined the BNHS in 2014, after completing his
graduation from Delhi University. He helps in coordinating the
centre’s programmes and surveys. Jitender has a great interest
in gardening and he loves his workplace as it is the green lung
of Delhi.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• Nursery technique
• Kitchen Gardening

Join BNHS from 10th April 2023
Email: chandrahasmahakal92@gmail.com

Mr Saurabh Singh

Kirubanandan A

Sachin Ranade

Siddhi is adept at various administrative jobs and currently manages the travel and accommodation bookings of the staff.

Alok Kumar ( Education officer )

I am a passionate zoologist and wildlife photographer dedicated to the conservation of grassland ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. My work focuses on protecting the Lesser Florican, Great Indian Bustard, and other grassland-dependent species, particularly within the unique and fragile ecosystems of the Deccan and Northwestern regions of India. I am involved in habitat restoration, species monitoring, and raising awareness about the critical importance of conserving these habitats. Through my research, photography, and advocacy, I aim to inspire action and contribute to the long-term survival of these endangered species and their environments.

Mr Shardul Bajikar

Sarbasis Dutta

Niranjan Dalei, working with BNHS since 02.04.2006, Administrative Officer, BNHS, VCBC, Pinjore

"Sivakumar is working on the Wetlands and Flyways Programme since October 2018. After completing his master’s in Wildlife Biology, he served as a field biologist at BNHS from 1998 to 2007. Before joining BNHS in 2018, Sivakumar was with World Wide Fund for Nature – India, Chennai Snake Park and Centre for Environment Education in various capacities. He has more than 26 years of experience in in-situ and ex-situ conservation of Indian wildlife and in the area of environmental education. His area of interests are studying faunal diversity, avian ecology, bird migration studies, ex-situ conservation and environmental education. Presently, he is involved in studying wetland ecology and bird migration in southern Indian states such as Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Puducherry, Kerala, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. He has published over 50 scientific and popular articles in national as well as international journals, newsletters, magazines, etc."

Education Officer

Pankaj Bishnoi

Prakash

My dream to become a veterinarian was not born from a wish to help and care for animals. It was merely a superficial fascination conceived in my young mind. But as time passed, this dream became fueled by the lack of care or compassion given to animals all around me. Although different from humans in more ways than one, animals were still living, breathing things – a similarity that should have negated all differences. It pained me to see how they were cared for with less love than humans. It was this that eventually became the reason I continued to pursue this career choice: to provide them the care, love and attention that they deserved even if no one else was going to do it.

Kuruswamy - Research

Gopi joined BNHS in 1993 and has worked on a number of brochures, banners and reports, besides Hornbill and JBNHS. He brings his creativity into the layout and design of BNHS publications.

Shashank is a researcher at BNHS, studying shorebirds and Flamingo ecology since September 2018. He has completed his post-graduation in Zoology from Pune University. Shashank did his summer research fellowship at IISc, Bangalore, where he studied the temporal and density-dependent change in throat colour pattern of Mysore day gecko Cnemaspis maysoriensis.

Shashank has completed course work in ornithology conducted by ELA Foundation and has interned with Kalinga Center for Rainforest Ecology, Agumbe on the breeding biology of King Cobra. He has volunteered on the research project involving the tagging of and studying the population ecology of Fan-throated Lizard and Garden Lizard in Chaloba (Western Ghats ). He has been part of a snake rescue group based in Gadhingalaj tehsil, Kolapur.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• ornithology
• animal behaviour
• ecology
• evolutionary biology

Lakhan joined BNHS in 2013, after a stint at the forest
department’s restoration project work in Asola Bhatti Wildlife
Sanctuary. He has a good knowledge of plants and insects and
is a keen photographer. Lakhan regularly monitors the wildlife
activity of the sanctuary and keeps a record of the same. He
has a keen interest in birds.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• Entomology
• Plants
• Photography

Sachin Bishnoi

Himadri Sekhar Mondal

Vinod has been with the BNHS since August 1998. Apart from maintaining the natural history specimens at Hornbill House. Vinod also assists the BNHS scientists to conduct field work and collect data.

Vinod loves music, which works as meditation for him.

Dilip Giri

Dr. Bharat Bhushan

Balaji

Aatish Manna

I’m from Kannur district in Kerala. I hold a master’s degree in Wildlife Biology and a bachelor’s degree in Forestry. My hobbies include bird watching, reading, and singing, which allow me to connect with nature and express my creativity. I aspire to pursue a career in the wildlife conservation sector, where I can contribute to protecting our natural heritage and promoting biodiversity.

Dr Praveen Kumar Vashistha

Jai Sharma

Sarus

Rajesh has been with BNHS since 2008. He is a skilled driver and a qualified field assistant

Working since 1st May 2004

Apart from being an adept driver, Omveer is also a keen
photographer and gardener. He helps the education staff in
conducting programmes and surveys. He has a good
knowledge of plants and helps to maintain the butterfly garden.
Omveer has been with the BNHS since December 2015.

Areas of interest/expertise

•    Gardening
•    Photography

Kiran Dalvi

Shyam B. Jadhav

Krishna 

Mr Dinesh Kothari

Abilash. R

Timan Singh

Working since 2nd May 2015

Aman Kumar ( House Keeping Attendant)

Dr Asad Rahmani Director of BNHS from 1997 to 2015. He has written more than 150 peer-reviewed research papers in national and international journals, 25 books and numerous popular articles and research papers. Principal research interest is conservation of bustards, storks and cranes, and other threatened species, as well as grassland habitats. A Ph.D. guide and Principal Investigator of many prestigious projects of BNHS, including Important Bird Areas (IBA) Programme of BirdLife International, RSPB and BNHS.

Ashish Yadav

Vinayak Giri

Mr.Arvind Mishra

Manoj Sahani

Prakash Sharma

Hi myself Mohijit Podder. I completed my master’s on 2021. I also associated with 2 research publication. I worked at Chilika Development Authority(CDA) as Junior Researcher. In July 2024 I joined Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) as Junior Project Fellow.

Working since 11th December 2009

M.Sc. Ph.D. (Environmental Science) Wildlife enthusiast, working in this field since 22 years. Presently, Honorary Wildlife Warden of Amravati, President of Maharashtra Pakshimitra, and IBCN State Coordinator. Served as a member on Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board. Awarded doctorate on “Biodiversity of Butterflies of Satpuda” in 2008. Authored 4 books in Marathi and co-authored “IBA’s of Maharashtra” published by BNHS. Published more than 55 Research papers and notes.

Khushboo Rani

Parasnath

Pritam

Harshal Jitakar

Sugyan

Bird Migration

Dr. Shubhalaxmi Vaylure Munuswamy Reddy M.Sc. Ph.D.; Life Member Entomologist, educationist, and entrepreneur, Working for over two decades in the environment sector, especially eco-restoration. Founded Ladybird Environmental Consulting, Nature Watch Foundation, and Birdwing Publishers. Developed environmental mobile apps and online courses. Involved in rejuvenation and reforestation works to improve biodiversity. Authored Field Guide to Indian Moths. Fulbright Fellow and Hubert Humphrey Fellow, Member of the IUCN group on Conservation Education and National Moth Week. Winner of Green Teacher Award of Kirloskar Vasundhara.

Paul Anthony

Vinod Jadhav

Since 2022, I have been working for the successful release and reintroduction of captive-bred vultures into the wild at the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre (VCBC) in West Bengal and now in Assam. My work includes pre- and post-release monitoring, habitat utilization studies, and nest monitoring of wild vultures to ensure their successful reintegration into natural ecosystems.
I am also actively involved in Vulture Safe Zone activities, conducting raptor surveys and undercover pharmacy surveys in western Assam to understand current trends. Through targeted advocacy and awareness programs, I collaborate with key stakeholders—including the Forest Department, local NGOs, veterinary officers, educational institutions, and local communities—to promote vulture-safe practices and encourage their active involvement in the protection of these critically endangered species.
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/aniket-pawar-720aa71b4

Sugandha

Abhay Rai

Dhiraj Rabha

Lesser Florican Project

Bird Migration 

Actively involved, over two decades, in conservation of threatened species and important habitats, including PIL to save Bustard habitats in India. Successfully opposed Gargai Dam project in Tansa WLS. Member of three IUCN Commissions and Indian National Committee of IUCN-India. Conservation Fellow of Born Free Foundation. Member of BNHS Conservation and Programme Sub-committees. Director of The Corbett Foundation. Authored several articles/books on wildlife. Recipient of Awards/Recognitions in the field of conservation.

Rose Francis

Rupesh Dhuri

Sushil Pawar

Basanta Rabha

Jaywant More - MTHL / NIMA Project

Dr. Parvish Kantilal Pandya Ph.D. Zoology; Membership Number: L 355 BNHS Life Member since 1978; Former Vice-Principal and Associate Professor of Zoology at Bhavan’s College, Mumbai; Consultant Director, Science and Conservation, Sanctuary Nature Foundation; Mentor, Research Guide, Educator; Organised hundreds of environment-based programmes for BNHS members, nature guides, forest departments, teachers, corporates, administrators, armed forces; Facilitated, edited, devised environment education material; Project Leader for ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation; Recipient of awards and accolades; advocates and practices sustainable lifestyle.

Sachita Perkar

P. Murugesan

Bird Migration

Rohan Madhukar Bhate-Shah Life Member Working on Ornithology and Herpetofauna in Western Ghats since past three decades. Helped Forest Department rescue of leopards, birds, & herpetofauna. Honorary Wildlife Warden–Satara, working on Indian Pangolin Committee of Maharashtra Govt.. Volunteering with WCCB-MoEF&CC and helped Forest Department conduct raids and arrest 142 offenders in four years. Contributed to Maharashtra Wildlife Action Plan. Received several awards, including the prestigious International Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Nikhil Ghadigaonkar

Shribrij Prajapati

Senthil Kumar L

Abhinav Dinesh Nair

GC, Member

Ganesh Pallela

Jay Gore

Himalaya & Bengal Florican Project

GC, Member

Balashore works as a driver at the Sikkim field station under BNHS Climate Change and Himalaya Programme. He is good at identifying the local medicinal plants and vegetation. He has also developed an interest in bird watching.

I'm in vulture conservation project from 2021 , now I'm working at vulture safe zone, Assam.

Mohammed Quasim

Kulojyoti Lahkar One of the few pioneering conservationists of north-east India involved in conservation since 1980s, his student days. As a result of Kulojyoti and other conservationists’ advocacy and outreach efforts, Chakrashila, a prime habitat of Golden Langur was declared a wildlife sanctuary, Kaziranga’s 6th addition area was added to the Kaziranga NP. He surveyed many IBAs and wrote more than 110 IBA accounts. As staff of BNHS he raised funds for BNHS through projects.

Mr R. Sreenivasa Murthy IFS-Retd, Bhopal A Biology graduate, M.Sc (Forestry-IGNFA) and PG Diploma in WL Management (WH), and M.PhiI in Botany, retired as APCCF from Madhya Pradesh. Started systematic vulture study in Panna and MP. A Tiger Reintroduction and State Wetland expert, he revived the falling tiger population in Panna. Received Baagh Mitra (WWF-lndia-PATA), RBS Earth Hero Award, MP State Gaurav Samman, and CM’s Excellence Award.

Manimaran Gopalasamy

Deep Gogoi

Tek Singh

Md. Sikandarr

Ravi Kumar

Md. Aashik

I am a wildlife biologist primarily interested in raptors and their conservation. Joined BNHS in March 2020.

Devidatta Sharma

Governing Council - Member

Samsul Vajdar

Sivakumar Balsamy

Kannadasan B

Alka Dubey

Sukh Dev

Manohar Lal

Dilip Rabha

Rajnish

Lokesh Gurjar

Balak Sharma

Dr. Arockianathan Samson is a distinguished avian ecologist and a preeminent authority in vulture conservation, currently serving as the Centre Manager of the Bombay Natural History Society’s Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre (VCBC) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.
His academic credentials are a testament to his profound expertise—he holds an undergraduate degree in Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology, a postgraduate degree in Zoology (Wildlife Biology), and a Ph.D. for his groundbreaking research on the population dynamics, breeding ecology, and conservation strategies of the critically endangered White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis) in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu, India. His doctoral work, recognized for its exceptional scientific merit, was awarded a Gold Medal for Best Thesis.
With an expansive intellectual footprint in the field of avian conservation, Dr. Samson has authored 116 research articles in prestigious peer-reviewed national and international journals, establishing himself as a prolific scholar. His scholarly contributions extend to 12 books, wherein he has served as both author and co-author, alongside 9 book chapters in reputed national and international publications.
His expertise is deeply rooted in vulture conservation breeding, ecological monitoring, and species recovery programs. An unwavering advocate for species restoration, he is committed to the ambitious endeavor of re-wilding captive-bred vultures, ensuring their successful reintegration into their natural habitats. Moreover, he aspires to enhance the vulture conservation breeding program, elevating its efficacy to bolster population recovery and genetic diversity.
Dr. Samson's career stands as a paragon of scientific rigor and conservation excellence, with his work playing an indispensable role in the preservation of one of the world’s most imperiled avian species. His visionary leadership and unparalleled dedication continue to redefine the frontiers of vulture conservation in India and beyond.

Lalit Kumar

Ved Prakash

Pradip Raba

Hemanta Buragohain

Hiren Majumdar

Jayant Kumar Rabha

Raphik Uddin

Mahesh Sen

Pranab Deori

I, Ghanashyam Gogoi from Dibrugarh, Assam have completed my Master degree in Wildlife Biology from A.V.C College, Tamil Nadu. I have two years of experience in total. one year in Ecorest Services Private Limited as a Research Assistant and one year as a Field Assistant in Assam Biodiversity Board. Few of my interests are I like to travel to new places specially places where I can connect with Nature and explore a lot of new experiences. I love to cook traditional dishes. I love to read about World affairs. My ultimate goal is to roam for a month and visit Africa to explore its wildlife

Hi, I'm Jonathan D'Costa, a Conservation Biologist in the B.N.H.S. Vulture Programme. I have a Master's degree in Zoology and have previously worked on Smooth-coated Otters in Goa. Our team is currently working on a project focused on releasing captive bred vultures, and creating vulture safe zones within select Tiger Reserves in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, in collaboration with the Maharashtra State Forest Department.

I am Sanjay Parihar, a Research Biologist at the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. My journey into wildlife conservation began early in my student life, driven by a deep fascination with nature. I completed my BSc in CBZ and my Master's in Zoology from Barkatullah University. During my master's, I actively volunteered in numerous wildlife workshops and attended national-level seminars, further strengthening my commitment to conservation. My passion lies in protecting nature and wildlife, and I thrive in the field—tracking, conducting bird surveys, and exploring the wilderness. I believe life is short and should be lived freely. Nature has all the answers; we just need to seek them. Serving and conserving the natural world is the most fulfilling way to make life beautiful.

Email: ao@bnhs.org

Working with BNHS since 2016, Master in wildlife sciences

Email: sao@bnhs.org

Email: aa02@bnhs.org

"Post graduate with a record of achievement providing outstanding research skills, comprehensive knowledge and operational dexterity in fast-paced hatchery and laboratory environments. With a strong passion for teaching, research, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of aquaculture and fisheries science. Demonstrate exceptional problems solving skills by responding quickly to problems and generating effective solutions. Excellent work ethic, motivated to perform well both individually and in a team context, maintains a thorough grasp of recent trends and research innovations.

Designation Research Associate I

Date of birth 31.07.1999

Qualification M.F.Sc (Aquaculture)

Current area of work Mass scale production and sea ranching of Vulnerable Indian Seahorse Hippocampus kuda in West Coast, Maharashtra

Hatchery and laboratory experience:

• Monosex (all male) seed culture using hormonal feed and hatchery management of GIFT Tilapia in jar hatchery system, State Fish Seed Farm, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. • Hormone induced seed production and rearing of Indian Major Carps with Grass carp in circular carp hatchery, College of Fisheries Odisha. • Water quality analysis and management in hatchery. • Feed formulation for Tilapia and IMC. • Growth curve analysis and regular monitoring of batch culture for sampling. • Preparation of manure for better water quality. • Oscar fish Maintenance and Aquarium. • Histological analysis. • Characterization of bacteria, Antibiotic resistance profiling. • Determination of bacterial cell count using optical density. • Determination of Median Lethal dose of bacteria. • Study of multiple bacterial infection in fish. • DNA and RNA isolation, purification and gene amplification by PCR. • Quantification analysis of DNA expression by qPCR. • Primer optimization by Gradient PCR. • Agarose gel electrophoresis for extracted DNA & RNA. • Gel Elution – DNA and Protein. • Gene expression study by RT-PCR. • SDS-PAGE for determining the purity of protein. • Microbiology and Molecular Biology. • Systems and Computational Biology.

ACHIEVEMENTS: Qualified UGC-NET Exam held on September 2024 for Assistant Professor and PhD.

PUBLICATIONS AND ABSTRACT PRESENTED

Gayatree Behera, S.S Kawade, B.S.K Reddy and Panchakarla Sedyaaw, 2024. “Single cell protein in aquaculture: a comprehensive review”. International Journal of Development Research, 14, (04), 65385-65389.

Presented abstract titled, “Host-Pathogen Dynamics in Oscar Fish o-infected with Aeromonas jandaei and Edwardsiella tarda” in the International Workshop on Aquaculture Medicine and Aquatic Animal Health Management in Asia Pacific: Stats Constraints and the Way forward [AQUAMAP25], organized by National Centre for Aquatic Animal Health, Cochin University of Science and Technology from 16-18 January 2025.

Presented abstract titled, “Climate Change: Challenges and Conservation Measures”, in the International Fisheries Congress and Expo-2024, by Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) & College of Fisheries Panangad Alumni Association (COFPAA).

Presented abstract titled, “Bioeconomy in Aquaculture for Sustainable Development”, in the International Conference on Bioprospecting Potential Of Marine Organisms"" (ICBPMO-2024) by Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Science and Technology, Tamil Nadu.

Email: rash1@bnhs.org

Email: jessica.barman7@gmail.com

PhD scholar from Wildlife Institute of India currently heading project in Ladakh on "Biodiversity Monitoring and Conservation with Indian Army"

Email: niaz.khan797@gmail.com

Email: s.humtsoe@bnhs.org

Vithoba has been with BNHS since 1982, working as a taxidermist and helping to maintain and preserve specimens. Vithoba also works on different projects from time to time. He has been part of several programmes for members and other interested people.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• taxidermy
• bird studies

Email: v.hegde@bnhs.org

Manohar Karma

"Joined BNHS in August 2024 as an IT Officer in the BNHS-EIACP Department. Specializes in Android app development and has a keen interest in traveling and trekking.

Role & Responsibilities:

Managing the BNHS-EIACP website

Handling BNHS-EIACP social media

Developing Android applications

Providing IT support and digital solutions

Contact Information:

Mobile: 6352160600

Email: ito@bnhs.org"

I am Yogesh Narendra Dhamnaskar working as DEO in EIACP Department.

Mobile No.: 9970110363

Email ID: deo@bnhs.org

Email: jrfmb@bnhs.org

Dr. Reshma Pitale is an experienced marine biologist with over 12 years of expertise in marine invertebrate taxonomy and coastal diversity assessments. Her research focuses on marine biodiversity, conservation strategies, and management of coastal ecosystems.
Email: rd.pitale@bnhs.org

I am an Ornithologist working on threatened endemic species such as Green Avadavat and Finn's Weaver
Email: r.bhargava@bnhs.org

"Parveen Shaikh joined BNHS in 2012, she has completed her MSc. Environment Science. Parveen initiated her work on the Endangered Indian Skimmer Rynchops albicollis and other sympatric sandbar nesting birds along the National Chambal Sanctuary in India in 2016 with support from Conservation Leadership Programme and BirdLife International. Her research and monitoring efforts at Chambal have revealed alarming low nest survival rates of Indian Skimmer, primarily due to nest predation, trampling, flooding, sandstorms, and disturbances caused by human activities such as damming and sand mining.
In response to these challenges, her team at BNHS initiated the ‘Helping Skimmer Skim’ conservation program, which includes the innovative ‘Guardians of Skimmer’ initiative. This initiative includes 24x7 protection of most vulnerable nesting colonies with the help of trained local community members as nest guardians. Engaging local communities as nest guardians has proven to be a successful approach, resulting in significant improvements in nest survival rates. Expanding this program and establishing a scalable conservation model for the Indian Skimmer across various breeding sites is her aim for conservation of riverine birds in India."

Highly dedicated wildlife conservationist specializing in conservation programs and animal behavior studies. Currently, working at Melghat Tiger Reserve with BNHS, focusing on creating a Vulture Safe Zone and reintroducing vultures into the wild. My passion lies in protecting endangered species and restoring ecosystems through research-driven conservation initiatives. With a background in zoology, I am committed to making a lasting impact on wildlife preservation.

Aqsa Majgaonkar holds a Master’s degree in Botany with a specialization in Angiosperm Taxonomy from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. With a strong background in biodiversity, plant sciences, and environmental education, she brings a blend of academic excellence and practical field experience to her role. At BNHS, she is passionate about making nature education engaging and accessible through workshops, educational content, and outreach programs.

Account Assistant 

Junior project Biologist

Junior Project Biologist

Bharat S.

Sunil Bhavsar

Name of Staff: - Nirmala Omprakash Barure,
Educational Qualification:-M. Sc. (Mathematics) M. Lib. Sc.
Department: -Library
Designation: - Librarian
Past and present (50 words): - Before joining BNHS in 2007, she worked for 12 years in the various academic institutions mainly Engineering colleges, among which in two organizations worked as a founder member. From the beginning headed the library Department independently and known for taking new initiatives. In 2007 joined BNHS so far involved in Library Management and administration, Preservation and conservation of Rare books, Taken up the work related to Institutional Archives, Writing proposals for funding, Arranged Five Rare books exhibition and one art display, co-ordinated with the editors in publishing coffee table book, promote and volunteer organisational activities/events. Provided prompt and efficient reference service to the members extended various new services. Active role in ICC (internal Complaints Committee) of the BNHS.

Saurabh is a community officer, working for Satpuda Landscape Tiger Programme (SLTP), with focus on the assessment and monitoring of tiger population in Bor buffer and Bor-Melghat corridor and corridor conservation through community participation. Under SLTP, he was also involved in activities such as women sensitization programmes, improving chulhas, school pr ogrammes and surveys regarding the consumption of firewood in the villages surrounding Tadoba and Bor and understanding the Mahua flower economics in the village.

Saurabh joined BNHS in 2007 as a volunteer and was involved in various activities since then. He has a bachelor’s and master’s in Environmental Science. In 2012, he joined BNHS as an Education Assistant in the Conservation department under SLTP. He gained experience in various spheres such as school awareness programmes, biogas repair, livelihood activities and socio-economic surveys.

Additionally, he was part of the team for the Assessment of Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) – Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve Corridor, Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) - Bor Tiger Reserve Corridor & Bor Tiger Reserve – Melghat Tiger Reserve Corridor.

Areas of interest/expertise:

·       community awareness

·       education programme

·       camera trapping

Benjamin Franklin

Vibhuti is the head of the Publications department. She has been with BNHS since 1997 and currently works as Copy and Production Editor of JBNHS, Co-editor of Hornbill and Copy Editor of BNHS books.

Sathiyaselvam has over 20 years of research experience in wetland ecology, bird migration, avian disease monitoring and management planning for the wetlands. He has worked in various ecological and environmental impact assessments and biodiversity studies across the country. Having been trained by United States Geological Survey (USGS) in satellite tracking of waterbirds, Sathiyaselvam has independently deployed 48 satellite transmitters on nine waterbird species.

He has to his credit about 50 publications including scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, popular articles and scientific reports. He has also authored three books. He is one of the members of the Editorial Board for EGREE Newsletter and Biodiversity Field Guide brought out by the State Biodiversity Board of Andhra Pradesh.

Sathiyaselvam initiated the Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Programme in association with Tamil Nadu Forest Department, and Fishing Cat and Whale Shark Conservation programme with Andhra Pradesh Forest Department. While the turtle conservation programme is in progress, the Fishing Cat and Whale Shark conservation initiative has been taken up in a big way by the state forest department. The global status of the Fishing Cat has been revised and the Whale Shark conservation initiative has attained international recognition.

Sathiyaselvam has worked as a Field Biologist with the Forest Department of Tamil Nadu and as Conservation Biologist in the project ‘Mainstreaming biodiversity conservation into production sector’, implemented by the Government of India-UNDP-GEF and Government of Andhra Pradesh.

He has played an advisory role, motivating many industries towards biodiversity conservation and continues to be involved in community mobilization towards biodiversity conservation.  Presently BNHS has deputed him to the Central Asian Flyway Secretariat, established in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, to provide scientific and technical inputs to the secretariat for the conservation migratory birds.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• wetland ecology
• bird migration

Nita Shah

Nandkishor Dudhe joined BNHS in 2014; he is a post graduate in Environmental Science and is currently working on the project of the Environmental Information Awareness Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme (EIACP), the Programme Centre (PC) and Resource Partner (RP) on Avian Ecology at the BNHS (BNHS-EIACP). The BNHS-EIACP project provides information related to Avian ecology to researchers, decision makers, scientists, etc. across the country. He is instrumental in bringing out Buceros, the newsletter of BNHS-EIACP, and developing a mobile application that is related to avian ecology. Earlier as Research Assistant in the Important Bird Area (IBA) Programme, he was involved in the making of the book Important Bird and Biodiversity Area In India (IBA).

Reshma is a zoologist with BNHS, currently pursuing her doctoral studies, with intertidal areas of Maharashtra as her focus area. She is interested in understanding marine invertebrate taxonomy, diversity and ecology. Her doctoral study is aimed at studying species composition and distribution of polyclad flatworms from the intertidal areas of Maharashtra.

Since she joined BNHS in 2011, Reshma has been involved in environment impact assessments, marine biodiversity assessments and identifying ecologically important coastal areas in Maharashtra.

Areas of interest/expertise:

·       taxonomy

·       marine biodiversity

·       ecology

Sandesh is from Guhagar, Ratnagiri graduated from Siddharth College, Mumbai. 

Sandesh is working since 1998 in Marketing Department. 

Mr. Pravinsingh Pardeshi IAS (Retd)

Life Member. Former Chairman, BNHS Conservation Sub-committee. Fighting since past 30 years to protect the species in Satpuda landscape including forest owlet,wild buffalo and tiger. Member of Maharashtra state Board for Wildlife and served on Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife and Maharashtra State Biodiversity Board. Designed and implementing a community-based conservation model in Satpuda landscape forests like Pench, Melghat, Kanha, Satpuda Navegaon-Nagzira and Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve.

Asif

Working since 2015

B.Sc. in Chemistry and M.L.I.Sc.
working with BNHS from 2nd May 2014. Expertise in Library management.
Email: a.pimpalkar@bnhs.org

She has a background in biodiversity and wildlife conservation and has worked on the long-term monitoring of mammals at the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra for three years. Currently, she is part of the Avian Ecology team at BNHS's EIACP Centre, where she plays a pivotal role in the publication of the Buceros newsletter, the organization of workshops and bird-watching trails, and the creation of bird posters promoting avian conservation and awareness. She is highly interested in the conservation of biodiversity and wilderness areas in Mumbai and its adjacent regions.

Email: n.girkar@bnhs.org

Sonali has been involved in the production of the Society's publications.

Areas on interest/expertise:

·         Editing, proof reading and colour corrections.

Vice President

Charandas

Bala

Sujit

P. Kurusamy

Lesser Florican Project

Rajendra joined BNHS in 1994 and is involved in a number of research projects such as mangrove nursery and plantation at Gujarat and Maharashtra; Crab Culture at Jaigad, Ratnagiri; intertidal ecological studies across Maharashtra and Gujarat coast and macrobenthic sampling in Thane Creek. He also participates as a resource person in the nature trails and camps conducted by the Society’s Conservation Education Centre in Mumbai.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• Intertidal and Mangrove Ecology
• Crab Culture
• Environment Education

Sanchita is involved in the designing of BNHS publications since September 2014. Her expertise lies in the area of layout designing.

As an education officer, Priyadarshini’s work at CEC includes conducting trails at BNHS Nature Reserve, coordinating the online-hybrid courses run by BNHS and conducting environmental awareness sessions for school students.

She has a bachelor’s in Biotechnology and master’s in Environmental Sciences. Before joining BNHS in February 2017, she worked as a Biology lecturer.

Areas of interest/expertise:

·       environmental awareness

·       general biodiversity

Working since May 2007

Jitender joined the BNHS in 2014, after completing his
graduation from Delhi University. He helps in coordinating the
centre’s programmes and surveys. Jitender has a great interest
in gardening and he loves his workplace as it is the green lung
of Delhi.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• Nursery technique
• Kitchen Gardening

Join BNHS from 10th April 2023
Email: chandrahasmahakal92@gmail.com

Mr Saurabh Singh

Kirubanandan A

Sachin Ranade

Siddhi is adept at various administrative jobs and currently manages the travel and accommodation bookings of the staff.

Alok Kumar ( Education officer )

I am a passionate zoologist and wildlife photographer dedicated to the conservation of grassland ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. My work focuses on protecting the Lesser Florican, Great Indian Bustard, and other grassland-dependent species, particularly within the unique and fragile ecosystems of the Deccan and Northwestern regions of India. I am involved in habitat restoration, species monitoring, and raising awareness about the critical importance of conserving these habitats. Through my research, photography, and advocacy, I aim to inspire action and contribute to the long-term survival of these endangered species and their environments.

Mr Shardul Bajikar

Sarbasis Dutta

Niranjan Dalei, working with BNHS since 02.04.2006, Administrative Officer, BNHS, VCBC, Pinjore

"Sivakumar is working on the Wetlands and Flyways Programme since October 2018. After completing his master’s in Wildlife Biology, he served as a field biologist at BNHS from 1998 to 2007. Before joining BNHS in 2018, Sivakumar was with World Wide Fund for Nature – India, Chennai Snake Park and Centre for Environment Education in various capacities. He has more than 26 years of experience in in-situ and ex-situ conservation of Indian wildlife and in the area of environmental education. His area of interests are studying faunal diversity, avian ecology, bird migration studies, ex-situ conservation and environmental education. Presently, he is involved in studying wetland ecology and bird migration in southern Indian states such as Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Puducherry, Kerala, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. He has published over 50 scientific and popular articles in national as well as international journals, newsletters, magazines, etc."

Education Officer

Pankaj Bishnoi

Prakash

My dream to become a veterinarian was not born from a wish to help and care for animals. It was merely a superficial fascination conceived in my young mind. But as time passed, this dream became fueled by the lack of care or compassion given to animals all around me. Although different from humans in more ways than one, animals were still living, breathing things – a similarity that should have negated all differences. It pained me to see how they were cared for with less love than humans. It was this that eventually became the reason I continued to pursue this career choice: to provide them the care, love and attention that they deserved even if no one else was going to do it.

Kuruswamy - Research

Gopi joined BNHS in 1993 and has worked on a number of brochures, banners and reports, besides Hornbill and JBNHS. He brings his creativity into the layout and design of BNHS publications.

Shashank is a researcher at BNHS, studying shorebirds and Flamingo ecology since September 2018. He has completed his post-graduation in Zoology from Pune University. Shashank did his summer research fellowship at IISc, Bangalore, where he studied the temporal and density-dependent change in throat colour pattern of Mysore day gecko Cnemaspis maysoriensis.

Shashank has completed course work in ornithology conducted by ELA Foundation and has interned with Kalinga Center for Rainforest Ecology, Agumbe on the breeding biology of King Cobra. He has volunteered on the research project involving the tagging of and studying the population ecology of Fan-throated Lizard and Garden Lizard in Chaloba (Western Ghats ). He has been part of a snake rescue group based in Gadhingalaj tehsil, Kolapur.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• ornithology
• animal behaviour
• ecology
• evolutionary biology

Lakhan joined BNHS in 2013, after a stint at the forest
department’s restoration project work in Asola Bhatti Wildlife
Sanctuary. He has a good knowledge of plants and insects and
is a keen photographer. Lakhan regularly monitors the wildlife
activity of the sanctuary and keeps a record of the same. He
has a keen interest in birds.

Areas of interest/expertise:

• Entomology
• Plants
• Photography

Sachin Bishnoi

Himadri Sekhar Mondal

Vinod has been with the BNHS since August 1998. Apart from maintaining the natural history specimens at Hornbill House. Vinod also assists the BNHS scientists to conduct field work and collect data.

Vinod loves music, which works as meditation for him.

Dilip Giri

Dr. Bharat Bhushan

Balaji

Aatish Manna

I’m from Kannur district in Kerala. I hold a master’s degree in Wildlife Biology and a bachelor’s degree in Forestry. My hobbies include bird watching, reading, and singing, which allow me to connect with nature and express my creativity. I aspire to pursue a career in the wildlife conservation sector, where I can contribute to protecting our natural heritage and promoting biodiversity.

Dr Praveen Kumar Vashistha

Jai Sharma

Sarus

Rajesh has been with BNHS since 2008. He is a skilled driver and a qualified field assistant

Working since 1st May 2004

Apart from being an adept driver, Omveer is also a keen
photographer and gardener. He helps the education staff in
conducting programmes and surveys. He has a good
knowledge of plants and helps to maintain the butterfly garden.
Omveer has been with the BNHS since December 2015.

Areas of interest/expertise

•    Gardening
•    Photography

Kiran Dalvi

Shyam B. Jadhav

Krishna 

Mr Dinesh Kothari

Abilash. R

Timan Singh

Working since 2nd May 2015