Aishwarya Bhandari
B.Sc. Zoology

I am from Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. I have grown up watching divinity in the rich expanse of endless natural beauty here.  I have graduated in Zoology from Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi.I joined M.Sc. Biodiversity and conservation at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi where I have completed one year of post-graduation. My passion and enthusiasm for conservation biology and field ecology has earned me a spot at the wildlife institute of India. I was always interested in field based studies, watching documentaries, visiting Protected Areas, observing interactions within and between species and watching birds building and nurturing their nests. All these experiences during my journey triggered my love for nature and instilled naturalist traits within me. After volunteering for Black kite project in New Delhi during my undergraduation studies, I decided to pursue my passion as my career. I am curious to learn the unspoken language of wilderness and the harmonization, which comes along the trail. My areas of interest encompass biogeography, range shifts, behavioral and habitat ecology. The best way to conserve a species is to understand and preserve its habitat. I therefore plan to study conservation issues emerging due to habitat fragmentation and change in land use and land cover pattern happening mainly due to anthropogenic factors and the levels to which it affects the breeding ecology. I also have an interest to utilize knowledge of indigenous people and their practices for designing conservation plans. Some of my hobbies include travelling and exploring new places, bird watching, dancing, and crafting.

Kumar Ankit
B.Sc. Forestry

I am from Ranchi, Jharkhand. I have completed B.Sc in Forestry from School of Forestry and Environment, SHIATS, Allahabad (U.P). Peculiarity and charisma of nature’s beauty and wonder always fascinated me towards it. Since my childhood while helping my father in gardening I have derived immense pleasure in watching the rose ring parakeets feeding on corns in the garden. My graduation in forestry subject introduced me to the wide gamut of wildlife studies. It also opened my eyes regarding the importance and necessity of nature conservation. In my vacations I used to visit the National Parks and Sanctuaries nearby my college and my state. Whenever I get chance I used to trek with my friends. I like watching wildlife and tribal documentaries. I am interested in habitat conservation and its management, mammalian behavior and estimation of wildlife populations. I want to serve my state Jharkhand where wild animals are facing enormous problems due to various anthropogenic disturbances despite having a vast forest resource. Playing cricket, trekking and listening music are some of my hobbies.

Ashwin Warudkar
B.Sc. Zoology

I was 14 when I was first introduced to the various facets of ecosystems, their correlation and a rustic lifestyle without any modern facilities in the Forest of Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary in India. This experience triggered my journey into the field of ecology. My passion for this field grew as I travelled through various forests in India exploring a number of habitats and its diversity. This made me choose the field of Ecology as a career choice. I have completed my B.Sc. in Zoology from Fergusson College, Pune. During my undergraduate course, I have conducted a variety of educational sessions for schools, training programs for forest guards and honed my presentation skills. I have been closely associated with a local NGO ‘Nature Walk’ since last 6 years through which I worked in the field of Wildlife Awareness and Nature Conservation. I also volunteered for a project on Bat ecology in the forest of Wayanad in Kerala which was funded by WWF under the guidance of Kadambari Deshpande. I am interested in studying spiders. My intrigue of spiders was developed because of their unique silk spinning ability, various predation techniques, mating behaviour and more importantly their ecological significance as biocontrol agents. Considering the role of these tiny creatures in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, spiders themselves provide inspiration to me. Investigation of historical ecological records and comparing it with the present scenario appeals to me greatly. Knowing the mortality spiders impose on insect population of an ecosystem, it is critical to study the role they play in maintaining the equilibrium in food chain. I aim to study the same. I would also like to work on interdisciplinary studies like spiders’ responses to climate change, their habitat preference, chronobiology which is crucial in understanding their ecology. This will develop a holistic approach towards my future research.

Ashish A.P.
B.Sc. Forestry

I am from a village in kozhikode district of kerala. I am also fond of nature, animals ever since i can remember -a sentence common in most WII student profiles. 

Myriads of animals in and around home, mango and jack fruit trees which bestowed fruits to eat and provided playground to play, dozens of cat generations with whom home was shared, occasional pets like tree pie, toddy cat etc; friends in school who were bigwigs in breeding and rearing animals; scoldings from parents for catching animals; sister who is also an ardent nature lover etc gave continuation for that fascination and love for nature. Nature club of school gave a new direction to that fascination by teaching about the need for conservation, and it also gave chance for  participating in nature camps and first forest experiences. Teachings by eco-activists like Tomi, Shri Shivaprasad and John. C. Jacob inspired in choosing B.Sc forestry for graduation.

Forestry Graduation from college of forestry Sirsi, Uttara Kannada district a gave a real exposure to forest. Opportunity to participate in monitoring of animal populations in Anshi Dandeli National Park by Centre for Wildlife Studies, vegetation and wildlife estimation in Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary by Karnataka forest department, documentation of fauna and flora for Peoples Biodiversity Registers of six grama panchayats of coastal Uttara Kannada under Karnataka Biodiversity department, various Wildlife-ecology-environmental science practical under Course teacher -Wildlife Assistant Professor Shridhar D Bhat helped in understanding nature much more. Books like Ishmael by Daniel Quinn, Small is Beautiful by E F Shumaker, Bill Watterson's Calvin and Hobbes; and environmental movies like Apocalypto, Lone ranger and Gandhian concepts of development etc inspired in continuing in field of forestry, ecology and wildlife.

Hobbies include bird watching, trekking etc. likes animations. Interested in animal interactions, ecology and farming.

Krishna Murari
B.Sc. Forestry

I am from Valmikinagar (Bihar),that has the only Tiger Reserve in the state. Since my birthplace lies in Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR), I have always been in close contact with Forest and Wildlife and have never dreamt of any other job. I did my graduation in Forestry from College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology. I have been on various field trips, State forest department attachment, and village attachment under Rural Awareness Work Experience (RAWE) and have studied Wildlife courses. I have done internship in VTR on "Migratory Indo-Nepal Rhinoceros" during which I assessed the crop damage problems in villages adjoining the tiger reserve. My area of interest are Wildlife Ecology, taxonomy, and Habitat Management. Besides sports, I love trekking, exploring jungles and have passion for photography.

Naman Goyal
B.Sc. Biological Science

The “future of pristine wilderness lies not in curbing human occupancy but in better understanding of the extent of its influence, leading to its essential management.”I come from New Delhi and graduated from University of Delhi with Bachelors in Biological Sciences. My first research experience focused on the urban ecology of Black Kites. During this endeavour I got to understand how presence or absence of species in a habitat can be indicative of the health of that habitat. I then volunteered on a research project investigating the evolution, diversity, and biogeography of the avifauna along the Andean elevation gradient in Peru, South America. This experience involved working in the pristine wilderness of one of the most biologically diverse places in the world. It was a true test of my ability to survive in and admire the wild. While volunteering for a study focused on the tigers and ungulate community at Kanha Tiger Reserve, I observed how so many intricate interactions among different species exist in a community. All such opportunities brought me closer to a wide array of students and scientific experts across the world, opening my eyes to pursue this field as lifelong affair. Like they say, if one’s passion becomes his profession, he never works for life. Birds have always been the focal point of my interest. Their complex and diverse ecology has attracted me to them throughout my childhood. Hence, my underlying interests lie in ornithology and conservation. Although I’d like to start with birds, I want to gradually work my way up to expand my research ideas to broader applications, to help conserve biodiversity by developing practical solutions and strategies that address current conservation issues and mitigate environmental degradation.

Nimisha Srivastava
B.Sc. Life Sciences

I am from Uttarakhand. I did my graduation in Life Sciences from Gargi College, University of Delhi. Having an inborn passion for wildlife, I always wanted to contribute to save the most exquisite and precious gift we have. Channels like National Geographic, Animal Planet, etc. gave further acceleration to my interest. Also, visiting different hill stations, bound with the natural beauty, developed an inner urge to protect them. I have experienced trekking, jhummaring, rappelling, mountain climbing, etc. during my camp trip to Ranibagh, Nainital. My areas of interest include wildlife photography, bird watching, studying animal behavior, man-animal conflict, and evolution. I also want to draw attention to the magnitude and importance of herbivores, that are often neglected, protecting various corridors that are continuously being depleted for human's vested interest and creating new ways which will help reduce poaching. To describe in a line about me, I want to die in the lap of nature but wonder nature doesn't die in front of me. My hobbies include singing, dancing, traveling and exploring nature.

Priyanka Justa
B.Sc. Forestry

I am born and brought up in Shimla. I have done my bachelors degree in Forestry from Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan. Compared to shopping malls & multiplexes I have always preferred fresh, clean mountain air & bird songs. Documentaries on nature have always inspired me to work for its conservation. During my graduation I got an opportunity to participate in Musk Deer census in Great Himalayan National Park. I also got the chance to visit various National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries of the Himalayan region. Visiting those Protected Areas was the most exhilarating experience of my life & added fuel to my desire for pursuing a career in Wildlife Science. I love to travel and explore new places. I would like to work on wildlife conservation and its management in particular.

Rakesh Mondal
B.Sc. Zoology

I am Rakesh from Kolkata. I did my graduation in zoology from Sarsuna college affiliated to Calcutta University.  Wildlife has been my first love ever since I was 12 years old, when I first read the Jim Corbett omnibus. I have visited many wildlife habitats across India, from Neora Valley of north Bengal to the Anamalais of southern India. I have also trekked the Mt. Sandakphu through the forest of Singalila National Park. I had the opportunity to participate in the field-work for the preparation of “Peoples Biodiversity Register of Kolkata “. I used to spend most of my time watching birds in the suburbs of Kolkata. My other interests include playing football, reading and drawing. I want to pursue a career in nature conservation.

Ravi Kumar Sharma
B.Sc. Forestry

I am from Barabanki, nearby Lucknow. I have completed B.Sc. in forestry from “School of forestry and environment” SHIATS, Allahabad. I developed an interest toward speechless flora and fauna along with their environment from my graduation after studying the fundamentals and management of wildlife. I have visited Protected Areas and zoos. During my summer holidays I used to notice the activity of birds like weaver birds, parakeets, babblers frequenting my village garden. I like to read travel blogs and documentary novels based on wildlife. In near future I would like to work on the human-animal conflict, project tiger and improvement of wildlife in India. My other liking and interest are travelling, Sufi music, pencil sketch and playing chess

Sultan Singh
B.Sc. Zoology

I am from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. I did my graduation in B.Sc(H) Zoology from Hansraj College, University of Delhi. I have travelled a lot in my life and that is what has lead me into the fascinating and enchanting world of Nature. Of the places I have been to, Shillong has left an everlasting imprint on my mind and heart. Shillong’s spectacular beauty, lush green mountains and incessant rain has motivated me to appreciate nature. Travelling has also exposed me to the other side of the coin, the insensitive and unplanned development in the guise of human welfare. The realization of this fact and my love for Nature has brought me here.

My other interests include playing football and rapping.

Sijagurumayum Rohikanta Sharma
B.Sc. Zoology

I am from Manipur, the "Jewel of India". I did my graduation in B.Sc. Zoology Honours from Hans Raj College, Delhi University, Delhi. Belonging to a village, I have always interacted with Mother Nature and found myself amazed in many possible ways. During my graduation, I have been exposed to certain sanctuaries and this has helped me in developing an interest in wildlife. I have been dreaming about pursuing a career in wildlife science through the Wildlife Institute of India. I am interested to learn more about animal behaviour and their interaction with their respective environments. My other interests include travelling, photography, sports, gaming and drawing.

Monisha Mohandas
Business & Environmental Science

Born in a country rich with tropical biodiversity, Malaysia has been my home for eighteen years. Since I was at the age of 7, I was exposed to the wild environment due to my father. He took us on field trips and outdoor activities such as jungle trekking, walking through waterfalls, visiting the elephant sanctuary in Kuala Gandah and many others. My interest and passion for the environment only increased when I made a trip to Maasai Mara, Kenya. I managed to go on several game drives and visit the wild animals up close in their natural habitat. I have completed an undergraduate degree in Business and Environmental Science in James Cook University, Singapore and done an internship for the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Moreover, I have been a volunteer for a few WWF projects such as the ‘TX2: Double or Nothing’ campaign for raising the number of tigers in Malaysia, Earth Hour 2011 (Malaysia) and Earth Hour 2013 in Singapore. I have realized that I am interested in studying about animal behavior and conducting conservation as well as research works at the grass- root level.

Samyuktha Rao
Graduate in Biological Sciences

Though I hail from the coastal town of Visakhapatnam, AP, Bangalore has become my adopted hometown. Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks have been my weekend getaways since I was six. I completed my fourth year of Integrated Masters in Biological Sciences from Bangalore University when WII came calling. I have been inspired to work on marine biology ever since I read about Michael Tolland, my favourite character from Dan Brown's The Deception Point. I have worked with organisations like BNHS, NCBS-TIFR and IISc, and on several aspects like man-animal conflict, taxonomy, sexual biology, resource allocation. All these experiences have taught me that the more I learn, the more I understand that what I can't understand about the Earth's and its inhabitants' mysteries is greater. I believe in connecting conservation and environmental issues to awareness and involving the people. My hobbies include creative writing, singing and reading fiction.

Rajat Rastogi
B.Sc. Zoology

“If all mankind were to disappear, the world will regenerate back to the rich state of equilibrium that existed ten thousand years ago. If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos”. This quote of E.O. Wilson says it all and I take unique pride in expressing my admiration for this biological wealth around us. I come from Mawana, Uttar Pradesh and have pursued my graduation in Zoology from Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi. Since childhood,my keen interestwas observing insect-reptile interactions and watching wildlife documentaries and eventually, the wild-gene inside me got activated. Fireflies in the surrounding fields, the remains of a wasp getting dismantled by ants and opportunistic forage by baby lizards are few of the many observations which intensified my desperation and inspired me to explore nature. I volunteered in Project Black kites in New Delhi and Project Tiger in Kanha National Park, where I learnt how basic knowledge of science and natural history nurture one’s perception and helps in understanding the life-processes and interactions in a better way.

I am fond of insects because of their huge diversity and unique behaviour. Observing the change in plant community caused by alien flora intrigues me. I am interested in studying the ecology of Invasive plant species and their interaction with the native fauna in protected areas and agro-ecosystems. Community ecology, Plant-Animal interactions and Restoration ecology interests me a lot. Apart from this, I enjoy dancing, painting and photography.