The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) held a historic event called “EXTRAORDI-नारी: Wings of Wishdom”, to celebrate the spirit of cooperation that propels the country’s advancement and to recognize the accomplishments of women in science.

The occasion honored the accomplishments, tenacity, and fortitude of female scientists, academics, and activists while simultaneously acknowledging the vital assistance provided by their male mentors and colleagues.

In addition to honoring the significant contributions made by women scientists, scholars, and changemakers, the event demonstrates ZSI‘s dedication to equity, empowerment, and excellence. It also recognizes the steadfast support of their male counterparts, who have traveled alongside them in solidarity as mentors, allies, and colleagues.

After an invocation, the event screened the short film “Wings, Fins & HER Footsteps”, which focused on the experiences of women in conservation research and biodiversity at ZSI. In her welcome speech, Dr. C. Raghunathan, Additional Director, ZSI, discussed the history of the organization and the changing role of women in it. Notable was the unveiling of the ‘EXTRAORDI-नारी’ logo by ZSI Director Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, who was the first woman to occupy this role in the organization’s 105-year history. Her leadership was acknowledged as a representation of excellence, inclusivity, and change.

During the ceremony, four exceptional female students—Ms. Preeti Debnath, Ms. Sonali Gazi, Ms. Sayani Roy, and Ms. Loveli Mukherjee were given the WIZ Award-2025 (Women in Zoology). In keeping with ZSI’s mission to support the future generation of female scientists, these students were selected for their outstanding academic achievement and dedication to the zoological sciences.

Eminent guest speakers, including Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR and Director General of CSIR; Prof. Geetanjali Dash, Vice-Chancellor, Berhampur University, Odisha; and Dr. Sangeeta Dubey, IFS, Ex-PCCF & CEO, CAMPA, Govt. of West Bengal, delivered powerful speeches on the changing landscape for women in science, policy, and leadership.

Two new publications, “Creature Chronicles – Wild Hearts, Wise Minds” and the “ZSI Directory – 2025,” were also officially launched.

A panel discussion titled “Ordinary to Extraordinary – The Journey,” moderated by Prof. Ayaz A. Shafi, saw the presence of Dr. Nandita Chatterjee (IAS, Retd.), Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, Dr. Ruchi Badola, Dr. Archana Sinha, Ms. Bonya Ray, and Ms. Ajanta Dey.

Educationist Ms. Gargi Banerjee, yoga practitioner Ms. Soumee Mitra, and retired ZSI scientist Dr. Rina Chakraborty were among the ladies acknowledged for their noteworthy accomplishments during the ceremony.

Priyanka Dutta