The prestigious awards, presented by Prabha Khaitan Foundation and WWF-India, celebrate exceptional contributions to wildlife conservation and management of human-wildlife conflict
Jaipur, March 23, 2026 The sixth edition of the Machhli and Vanya Prani Mitra Awards was held today at ITC Rajputana . The annual awards, presented by the Prabha Khaitan Foundation (PKF) and WWF-India, recognise individuals whose extraordinary efforts contribute significantly to wildlife protection and conflict management.
The Machhli Award was awarded to Udaipur Wildlife Rescue Team (Sitaram Meena, Ajit Singh Ranawat, Jitendra Singh, Dwaraka Prasad Sharma, and Ashok Narayan Joshi), They have successfully rescued and safely relocated an extensive number of animals. Mrs. Saroj Kanwar, Forest Guard from Ramgarh Vishdhari TR, Bundi, she has served as a vital interface for village relocation within the Critical Tiger Habitat. Ms. Anita Kumari, Forest Guard, Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Successfully rescued more than 450 wildlife animals. Mr. Ramlal Gurjar, Technician/Tree guardian, Kailadevi Wild life Scantuary, Monitoring high-risk areas, leading to a significant reduction in poaching and illegal forestry.
The Machhli Award carries a total prize of Rs. 2.5 lakh, which was split evenly between the four winners for their outstanding contribution. Each winner also received a certificate of appreciation.
The Vanya Prani Mitra Award, which recognises exceptional management of human-wildlife conflict, was shared by Mr. Darshan Kumar Menaria, Udaipur, Lecturer & Conservationist, Transformed Menar into a globally recognized “Bird Village” by leading community efforts to stop harmful practices. Anil Kumar Bishno, Hanumangarh Territorial Forest Divison, Dedicated over 35 years to wildlife, personally rescuing more than 10,000 wild animals. Mr. Peera Ram Dhayal, Wildlife Protector, Operates a rapid-response system to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, intervening in high-risk situations to prevent mob violence and retaliatory killings .
The Vanya Prani Mitra Award carries a total prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh, which was split evenly between the three winners. Each winner also received a certificate of appreciation.
All the awardees were selected by a distinguished jury, comprising Mr. Rahul Bhatnagar, IFS (Retd.); Mr. Rajpal Singh, IFS (Retd.); and Mr. Yash Shethia, Director of Wildlife & Habitat Programme, WWF-India.
On the occasion, Dr. Dipankar Ghosh, Senior Director, Biodiversity Conversation, WWF-India said: “These awards honour the champions who play an exemplary role for the preservation India’s wildlife. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Prabha Khaitan Foundation for their partnership in these awards. This recognition will inspire the field staff of the Rajasthan Forest Department to continue their crucial work in protecting and conserving the state’s wildlife and habitats.”
“At the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, we believe that true conservation lies not only in policy but in the tireless efforts of individuals on the ground who work selflessly to protect our natural heritage. Through the Machhli and Vanya Prani Mitra Awards, we seek to honour these unsung heroes whose courage, commitment, and compassion ensure a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. Our continued partnership with WWF-India reflects a shared vision to recognise and encourage such impactful work across the country.” — Sundeep Bhutoria, Managing Trustee, Prabha Khaitan Foundation
