BENGALURU, India (Diya TV) — Renowned Indian ecologist Madhav Gadgil has been awarded the United Nations’ highest environmental honor, the Champions of the Earth Lifetime Achievement Award, for his long-standing commitment to environmental preservation and advocacy for sustainable development. Gadgil, who has spent decades promoting ecological conservation and inclusive environmental policy, was recognized for his efforts to protect biodiversity and empower local communities in India.
The U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP) honored Gadgil on December 17 during a virtual ceremony, acknowledging his contributions to global environmental stewardship. Gadgil is best known for his work on the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), where he advocated for stricter conservation measures in one of India’s most biodiverse regions, the Western Ghats. His recommendations, outlined in the 2011 Gadgil Report, called for a participatory approach to environmental management that would involve local communities in decision-making processes, balancing development with conservation.
In his acceptance speech, Gadgil emphasized his belief in standing up for what is right, particularly in the face of opposition. “I have always believed in the power of grassroots movements and the need to ensure that environmental policies benefit everyone, especially the marginalized,” he said. “It is vital that we listen to the voices of those who are most affected by ecological degradation.”
Gadgil’s work on the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sparked debate and controversy in India. While many environmentalists supported his recommendations, there was significant pushback from developers and some state governments, who feared that stringent regulations could hinder economic growth. Despite the criticism, Gadgil has remained a vocal advocate for the protection of India’s natural resources, often highlighting the importance of incorporating scientific knowledge into policy-making.
Gadgil’s achievements extend far beyond the Western Ghats. He has been instrumental in shaping India’s environmental policy, contributing to various ecological assessments and reports. As a pioneering ecologist, Gadgil has promoted the idea of “inclusive ecology,” which emphasizes the involvement of local communities in environmental management. His approach has influenced environmental policies across India, especially in the areas of forest conservation, wildlife protection, and sustainable development.
This recognition by the U.N. further cements Gadgil’s legacy as a leader in the global environmental movement. The Champions of the Earth award is the U.N.’s highest environmental accolade, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made transformative contributions to environmental conservation.
Gadgil joins the ranks of other prominent environmental leaders who have received the award, such as former U.S. Vice President Al Gore and marine biologist Sylvia Earle.
