IUCN Kenton Miller Award 2025
Syllabus: Awards and Honours (UPSC Prelims)
Source: Hindustan Times
Context:
Dr. Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, has become the first Indian recipient of the IUCN WCPA Kenton Miller Award 2025, announced during the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi.
About IUCN Kenton Miller Award 2025
What It Is:
A prestigious international award presented by the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) to individuals demonstrating innovation, leadership, and excellence in the sustainable management of protected areas.
- Named after: Dr. Kenton R. Miller, renowned conservationist and former IUCN Director-General.
- Established in: 1999 to recognize creativity and impact in park and protected area governance.
Aim and Purpose
- Promote Innovation: Encourage pioneering practices in conservation planning, monitoring, community engagement, and sustainable financing.
- Recognize Global Impact: Celebrate individuals whose work enhances the long-term protection of natural and cultural heritage.
Eligibility and Recognition
- Open to protected-area managers, educators, and researchers from all governance types — government, community, or private.
- Focuses on first-time international awardees.
- Includes a USD 5,000 grant, citation of honour, and invited participation at the IUCN World Congress.
2025 Winner: Dr. Sonali Ghosh (India)
Awarded for:
- Community Integration: Empowering local communities as key partners in Kaziranga’s ecosystem management.
- Eco-Tourism Innovation: Developing sustainable tourism models that balance livelihoods with wildlife conservation.
- Anti-Poaching Excellence: Strengthening patrol networks and transboundary habitat connectivity across the Kaziranga–Orang–Manas landscape.
- Gender Inclusion: Promoting women’s leadership in field conservation and ranger teams.
Significance:
Dr. Ghosh’s recognition places India at the forefront of global biodiversity leadership, highlighting the nation’s commitment to inclusive, community-driven, and ecologically responsible conservation practices.
