On the eve of International Tiger Day, the Indian Museum in Kolkata, the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, collaborated with Environ to organize a special program focused on tiger conservation. The initiative was conceptualized by the noted wildlife photographer, conservationist, and restaurateur Mr. Shiladitya Chaudhury. It successfully brought together a diverse group of eminent scientists, researchers, environmentalists, policymakers, corporate leaders, and wildlife enthusiasts onto a unified platform to address the urgent need to protect India’s national animal and conserve its natural habitat.

The event was graced by several prominent figures, including:

Dr. Sayan Bhattacharya: Director of the Indian Museum.

Mr. Sunil Limaye: Former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests for the Government of Maharashtra and current Member of the Central Empowered Committee.

Ms. Gargee Roy Chowdhury: Eminent actress.

Mr. Biswajit Roy Chowdhury: Nature and Wildlife conservationist.

Mr. Tushar Choudhary: Founder and CEO of Motovolt Mobility.

Mr. Debabrata Bandyopadhyay: General Manager of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).

Ms. Debarati Mukhopadhyay: Author of the book Maya.

A major highlight of the evening was the unveiling of Maya, a book published by Deep Prakashan and authored by Ms. Debarati Mukhopadhyay. The author was in conversation with Mr. Shiladitya Chaudhury. The publication details the extraordinary journey of Maya, the legendary tigress of the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, whose remarkable presence transformed the reserve into one of India’s most celebrated wildlife destinations while inspiring thousands to appreciate the country’s rich natural heritage.

Mr. Sunil Limaye delivered an insightful address drawing upon decades of experience in wildlife management. He shared valuable perspectives on tiger conservation, habitat restoration, and community participation, focusing on the transformation of the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve into one of India’s foremost success stories.

Mr. Shiladitya Chaudhury said, “Through the launch of Maya, the Tiger Taxis, and this city-wide awareness campaign, we endeavor to take the conversation on wildlife conservation beyond forests and into the hearts of people. Protecting tigers is ultimately about protecting our future, and every citizen has a role to play in this shared responsibility”.

Dr. Sayan Bhattacharya added that the 212-year legacy of the Indian Museum extends beyond preserving ancient artefacts to fostering awareness of India’s extraordinary natural legacy. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the vision of Viksit Bharat is strengthened by environmental protection.

As part of the broader public awareness campaign conceptualized by Environ:

Tiger Taxis: Two iconic vehicles artistically painted with tiger stripes were flagged off from the main entrance of the museum. These taxis will ply across Kolkata for three months, taking wildlife conservation directly to thousands of citizens.

Conservation Stickers: Tiger Conservation Awareness Stickers were launched to encourage individuals and organizations to actively participate in spreading awareness about tiger conservation and ecological significance.

For decades, Environ has maintained that conservation begins with awareness. The tiger remains a guardian of forests and a symbol of ecological balance, shared identity, and national pride.

Priyanka Dutta