Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, CEO and Secretary General of Aaranyak, our partner in North East India, has once again been recognized for his incredible conservation work. He has been nominated for the 2025 Indianapolis Prize, considered the world’s most prestigious award for animal conservation. Often called the "Nobel Prize of Animal Conservation," it was established by the Indianapolis Zoological Society in 2006 and honors the exceptional contributions of individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting animal species and promoting biodiversity. The Prize is awarded biennially, with the top honoree receiving $250,000 to support their ongoing work. Additionally, five DeHaan Finalists and one Emerging Conservationist each receive $50,000 for their conservation achievements​.

The Prize aims to spotlight the dedication and impact of conservationists around the world, raising public awareness and inspiring others to take action. Since its inception, it has recognized individuals whose groundbreaking work has helped protect iconic species and habitats, from elephants and rhinos to marine life and tropical ecosystems. With over $6.2 million awarded to date, the Prize has reached more than 2 billion people globally and set new standards for conservation excellence.

This nomination is a testament to Bibhab’s years of hard work, resilience, and steadfast commitment to saving endangered species and safeguarding critical habitats. As the founder of Aaranyak, which has grown to become one of the most trusted and respected conservation organizations in India, Bibhab has been a trailblazer in driving impactful conservation efforts across the region. Despite facing relentless challenges, his dedication and vision have created a legacy that is now being recognized on one of the world’s most prominent platforms for conservation. We wish him the best of luck and are delighted to see his incredible achievements celebrated on this global stage.