Guwahati: Aaranyak has been awarded the Mark Shand Award by the UK-based wildlife charity Elephant Family. This prestigious accolade was presented at the “Wonders of the Wild” ceremony held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London on May 13. The award acknowledges Aaranyak’s steadfast commitment to the conservation of Asian elephants in Northeast India, particularly its efforts to cultivate peaceful coexistence between wild elephants and local communities.
Aaranyak employs various conservation methods, including ecological research, conflict mitigation, habitat restoration, and community involvement. Dr. Bibhuti Prasad Lahkar, a senior scientist at Aaranyak and leader of its Elephant Research and Conservation Division, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. The honour was conferred by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who act as joint presidents of Elephant Family.
The event attracted an elite gathering of more than 250 guests, including Princess Beatrice, Lady Marina Windsor, Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazario, actors Ed Westwick and Amy Jackson, as well as singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
In his keynote address, King Charles III praised the global efforts of conservationists. “This evening is an opportunity to pay tribute to all the wonderful people who work on the ground to rescue not just elephants, but countless other species,” he remarked. He added, “As we continue to exploit nature, we must remember to give something back, to allow it to sustain us.”
Dr. Lahkar expressed gratitude on behalf of his team during his acceptance speech. “We thank everyone working with us to protect one of the last remaining populations of Asian elephants in Northeast India. Aaranyak remains devoted to reducing human-elephant conflict and ensuring a future where both communities and elephants can flourish.”
Aaranyak’s Elephant Research and Conservation Division has developed a comprehensive 20-year strategic plan aimed at addressing vital conservation priorities, from ecological monitoring and education to improving livelihoods in areas prone to conflict. This initiative serves as a cornerstone of the organization’s long-term vision for sustainable coexistence and elephant habitat preservation.
Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Secretary General of Aaranyak, emphasized that the award demonstrates the organization’s thorough, science-based approach. “This recognition is not just a source of pride but also a catalyst to continue our mission with even greater determination,” he stated.
The Elephant Family, established in memory of Queen Camilla’s late brother Mark Shand, is dedicated to protecting endangered Asian elephants globally. Shand’s acclaimed book, “Travels on My Elephant,” alongside his conservation legacy, continues to inspire initiatives like those carried out by Aaranyak.
Original Source: https://nenews.in/assam/aaranyak-honoured-with-mark-shand-award-by-queen-camilla-for-elephant-conservation-efforts/25322/
Category: Assam,Aaranyak,King Charles,London,Mark Shand Award,Queen Camilla
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Publish Date: 2025-05-14 20:56:00
