The Sinhasi Social Impact Initiative – Conference-1 began by emphasizing the pivotal role in holistic financial and life plans. It paid tribute to a conservation pioneer, emphasizing the pressing need for individuals and corporates to integrate nature conservation with climate change awareness in their social responsibility agenda. The event urged the marriage of traditional wisdom with modern science for sustainable wildlife conservation.
Experts highlighted the importance of grassroots engagement and genuine collaboration with local communities, particularly in the context of elephant conservation. There was a call to reevaluate elephant captivity practices, shifting towards more humane models. The significance of preserving existing forests for the future was strongly emphasized, along with the need for financial commitment to conservation.
Curated initiatives and NGOs showcased innovative approaches, including ecological agriculture, wildlife rescue, and tech-based solutions for elephant-human conflict. The afternoon session underscored the integration of traditional knowledge with scientific methods for sustainable conservation. It advocated for democratizing conservation efforts and the re-evaluation of 'Fortress Conservation' approaches. The success of the Forest Rights Act with indigenous tribes in the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve was highlighted, showcasing the power of community participation in conservation.
The conference concluded with a call to action for effective communication in conservation efforts. It stressed the significance of understanding one's audience and employing emotional storytelling alongside factual information. The need for optimism, action, and social mobilization were emphasized in addressing environmental challenges. Overall, the conference provided a comprehensive perspective on the vital intersection of nature conservation, climate change, and societal responsibility.
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Founder & Managing Director, Sinhasi Consultants
Welcome Address Context Setting
As you know , we at Sinhasi are holistic financial planners and investment advisors providing end to end financial solutions in planning and executing 360 degree life plans. We are curators of the best investment solutions for our clients with customization and objectivity , and with the underlying credo to PROTECT , ENRICH AND NUTURE our clients and their financial goals. This led to the birth of the Sinhasi Social Impact Initiative Program as part of the Social Responsibility of all our Life plans.
We begin this program with The Sinhasi Social Impact Initiative Conference – 1 which is on wildlife, nature, and climate change is a tribute to the late M.A. Parthasarathy, a pioneer in nature and conservation discussions. This conference aims to address critical issues related to wildlife and nature preservation, emphasizing the need for integrating traditional wisdom with modern science.
Sinhasi, a financial planning and investment solutions company, founded this initiative as part of their social responsibility commitment. They stress the importance of giving back to wildlife, nature, and climate change as CSR in India has played a significant role in areas like education, healthcare, and rural infrastructure, helping India become the fifth largest economy and potentially the third largest in the world. The conference seeks to sensitize individuals and corporations to these crucial environmental concerns and make them a vital part of their social responsibility agenda.
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Padma Sri & Padma Bhushan, Renowned Ecologist, Head of 2010 Gadgil Commission - the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel
Covering 6 decades in Conservation in India
In this insightful conversation at the conference, Prof. Madhav Gadgil, a legend and distinguished figure in wildlife conservation and ecology, shared his personal journey and experiences in the field. He discussed the importance of resilience we need in our efforts to save our planet and the role of personal background and education in his enduring commitment to conservation. Prof. Gadgil emphasized the need to bridge the gap between elite conservationists and the common people of India, highlighting that conservation often becomes elitist and disconnected from the masses. He stressed the importance of genuine engagement with local communities and the cessation of faith in bureaucracy and forceful measures, advocating for a more inclusive and grassroots approach to nature conservation in India. Overall, his wisdom and insights serve as valuable guidance for the next generation of conservationists and environmental advocates in the country.
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Padma Sri, Globally renowned herpetologist, wildlife conservationist, Founder – Madras Crocodile Bank Trust | Founder - Agumbe Rainforest Research Station – Karnataka
Conservation must become a Movement in India
Romulus Whitaker, the founder director of the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and a renowned herpetologist, shared his experiences and insights during the conference. He highlighted the beginnings of the conservation movement in India in the mid-1970s and the role of the late Mr. M.A. Parthasarathy in energizing it. Rom emphasized the importance of following one's passion for wildlife and nature conservation, urging young people to pursue careers in this field instead of more conventional paths like engineering or IT. He stressed that India needs passionate individuals who are willing to protect the planet from challenges like climate change.
In response to a question about remuneration and job security in the conservation field, Rom acknowledged the need for financial stability but expressed optimism about the increasing opportunities in conservation and the growing recognition of the value of preserving nature.
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Senior Ecologist - National Science Chairperson at the IISc, Bangalore
Setting the Context for the Conference
Professor Sukumar, a senior ecologist and nationally recognized scientist, introduced the conference celebrating the legacy of Mr. M.A. Parthasarathy. He began by expressing his deep connection with the late Mr. Parthasarathy, tracing their acquaintance back 50 years during the launch of Project Tiger in 1973. Professor Sukumar then highlighted the core theme of the conference, which centers on the importance of having a platform for dialogues among individuals and corporates about the imperative of social responsibility to wildlife conservation and nature preservation.
He emphasized that he has been an observer, practitioner, and contributor to wildlife conservation in India for over five decades. He stressed the complexity of conservation efforts, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that considers various paradigms, including conflict resolution, habitat preservation, and sustainable development. Professor Sukumar shared insights from the late Mr. Parthasarathy's manifesto, which advocated for the protection of biodiversity, environmental education, human rights, and the integration of traditional knowledge into conservation actions. He underlined the importance of recognizing and incorporating indigenous knowledge systems into modern conservation practices. In summary, Professor Sukumar's introduction highlighted the conference's significance in fostering discussions with all stakeholders around holistic conservation approaches and the importance of embracing traditional wisdom and social responsibility in preserving India's natural heritage.
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Secretary General and CEO at WWF-India
Raising Awareness and Finance in Conservation
Mr. Ravi Singh, the Secretary-General, and CEO of WWF India, participated in the conference celebrating the legacy of Mr. M.A. Parthasarathy. Mr. Singh, who transitioned from a banking career to conservation leadership, discussed the importance of merging finance and sustainability in addressing critical environmental challenges.
He highlighted the need for long-term financial commitment in wildlife conservation and climate change initiatives, stressing the significance of shifting professionals from various sectors, like banking, into environmental leadership roles. Mr. Singh acknowledged the global significance of these efforts and emphasized that sustainability and business sustainability are intertwined. He discussed the interdependence of water supply, industrial operations, and technological advancements, emphasizing the crucial role of nature in supporting human activities.
Mr. Singh expressed optimism about India's growing understanding of the importance of nature conservation and its role in global leadership. He called for raising awareness among individuals, especially corporate professionals, about the urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss. He spoke about WWF's commitment to addressing these challenges and underscored the need for collective action to safeguard the environment for future generations.
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Chairman – AME Foundation, IAS (Retd) Officer – Govt of Karnataka & former Ambassador of India to UNESCO in Paris
Ecological agriculture & eco-farming for improved ecological balances
Mr. Chiranjeev Singh, Retired IAS, and former ambassador of India to UNESCO, highlighted the critical importance of ecological agriculture and eco-farming in maintaining ecological balances. He emphasized the interconnectedness of nature and agriculture, discussing the decline in insect populations and its potential impact on the ecosystem.
Mr. Singh stressed the need for a holistic approach to conservation, incorporating sustainable farming practices and addressing the challenges of employment in rural areas. He also mentioned the efforts of the Agriculture Man and Ecology Foundation (AME) in promoting sustainable agriculture and disseminating experiences through publications like Leisa India Magazine.
Mr. Singh drew attention to the intricate "web of life" and the profound implications of insect conservation within this interconnected system. Overall, he underscored the necessity of re-evaluating the concept of development and its relationship with conservation in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss.
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Founder Trustees – CUPA – WRRC, Bangalore
Captive Elephants and Rescue & Rehabilitation Of Wild Animals
Ms. Suparna Ganguly, the co-founder and president of Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (WRRC) and founding trustee of CUPA, along with Dr. Sheila Rao, the honorary secretary and trustee of WRRC, discussed the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals. WRRC, founded in 1999, addresses the welfare of urban wildlife suffering due to urbanization and development. They highlighted their work in rescuing and rehabilitating various animals, including snakes, lorises, tortoises, and parakeets, emphasizing the need for awareness and support for wildlife conservation.
Moreover, they shed light on the pressing issue of captive elephants in India and the challenges they face, such as inadequate and inhumane living conditions and training methods. The speakers stressed the importance of involving the Forest Department and implementing better policies to ensure the welfare of captive elephants. They also emphasized the need for proper mahout training and mental health support for those working with elephants.
Additionally, they challenged the notion that keeping elephants in captivity is essential for cultural or religious reasons, citing studies that revealed devotees do not necessarily miss the presence of elephants in temples. They advocated for rethinking the way elephants are kept in captivity and exploring different more humane models that prioritize the animals' well-being, mimicking natural conditions as much as possible.
In conclusion, Mrs. Ganguly and Dr. Rao highlighted the urgent need to address the welfare of elephants and other wildlife in captivity, calling for awareness, government involvement, and improved policies to create a more humane and sustainable future for these majestic animals.
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Behavioral Ecologist, Frontier Elephant Programme, Senior Researcher - Foundation for Ecological Research Advocacy and Learning (FERAL)
The Millennial Male Elephant under Pressure !
Dr. Nishanth Srinivasiah, a behavioral ecologist, presented his research on male elephants and their changing behavior in response to a rapidly changing urban environment. His key takeaways are:
He also discussed the challenges of elephants coming into conflict with human activities and agriculture and highlighted the need for collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, including the corporate sector, to address these issues and reduce elephant mortalities and captivity.
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Programme Director - Asian Nature Conservation Foundation
Tech and Culture in Elephant Conservation
Sanjay Ajanikar and Amlan Aditya Goswami from the Asian Nature Conservation Foundation presented on the topic of "Tech and Culture in Elephant Conservation." They discussed the challenges faced in Golaghat District, Assam, including elephant deaths, human fatalities, and crop damage due to human-elephant conflicts.
The presentation emphasized the need for an early warning system using GPS collars to track elephant movement, strategic investments in physical barriers, and the preservation of local culture through technology. They also addressed the issue of elephant-train collisions and the importance of multi-disciplinary approaches in conservation efforts. Finally, they mentioned an initiative to encourage farmers to leave a portion of their fields for elephants to feed on during harvest, although this approach has some challenges. Their presentation highlighted the complex interplay of technology, culture, and ecology in elephant conservation and the importance of collaborative efforts to address these issues.
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Conservationist, Trustee - The Shola Trust, Gudalur & Co-founder of The Real Elephant Collective
Co-existence & the globe-trotting lantana elephants
Dr. Tarsh Thekaekara is a trustee of the Shola Trust and director of the Real Elephant Collective. Tarsh is a researcher, conservationist and interested in more human inclusive models of nature conservation. His presentation addressed the critical issue of invasive Lantana shrubs in South Indian forests. Lantana, an aggressive plant species, threatens biodiversity and intensifies human-wildlife conflicts. Despite historical efforts to eradicate it, Lantana remains a pervasive problem in the region. Its unchecked growth, covering nearly 40% of South Indian parks, disrupts ecosystems, leading to wildlife habitat loss and escalated conflicts.
Dr. Tarsh advocated for a comprehensive approach, involving mechanical removal, value chain creation from Lantana, and embracing traditional controlled fires. While removing Lantana is a slow process with ecological trade-offs, it's essential for restoring native habitats, mitigating conflicts, and fostering coexistence between humans and wildlife.
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Wildlife Biologist, Director – A Rocha India
A forest in Bangalore City - Bannerghatta 560083 – Forgotten Forests, Fragile Fences
Mr. Avinash Krishnan, the Director of Conservation Science and CEO of A Rocha India, delivered a presentation on the conservation challenges faced in the Bannerghatta National Park landscape, located in Bangalore city , India. He highlighted the rich biodiversity of the area, including elephants, leopards, tigers, and numerous other species. Avinash discussed the pressing issues of human-elephant conflict, degraded habitats, and the need for wildlife corridors.
His organization is actively involved in various conservation projects, including empowering local women, restoring ecosystems, and improving farming practices. Avinash emphasized the importance of citizen engagement and collaboration among organizations and institutions in preserving this unique natural heritage, inviting people to contribute their time, resources, and expertise to support these efforts to Bannerghatta National Park . Ultimately, he called for an integrated, holistic approach to conservation, emphasizing the need for collaborative action to protect Bannerghatta and its invaluable ecosystems.
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Project Lead - B.PAC
Urban Forestry - Greening Bangalore City
Ms. Mimi Partha Sarathy, who is also a member of the Bangalore Political Action Committee (BPAC), discussed the organization's inception and mission. BPAC was founded a decade ago to address the pressing issue of unmanaged garbage in Bangalore. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Mohan Das Pai spearheaded this initiative, rallying support from major companies like Infosys and Wipro. BPAC has since evolved into a dynamic platform promoting civic engagement with a focus on public-private participation to tackle a range of urban issues in Bangalore. As a nonpartisan, not-for-profit citizen group, BPAC has proven that it's possible to be political and neutral simultaneously while working solely within Bangalore's urban limits. Their unique model has garnered interest from other cities keen on emulating their success.
Ms. Harshita, representing BPAC, highlighted their various initiatives, including the B-CLIP program, civic leadership training, and advocacy work. BPAC operates under six key verticals, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability through the B.GREEN initiative. Their presentation underscored the critical importance of fostering urban sustainability as Bangalore's population burgeons, and green spaces dwindle. BPAC's dedication to awareness-raising, eco-friendly practices, and community engagement for environmental sustainability reflects their commitment to being the change they want to see in the city. The organization encourages active participation from citizens, political leaders, and government authorities, making it a driving force for positive change in Bangalore.
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Ecologist and Field Research Biologist , Environs Kimberly, Broome, Western Australia
The importance of integrating Indigenous Aboriginal Ecological Practices with science in Western Australia
Hamsini is a senior ecologist and researcher at Environs Kimberley in Broome, Western Australia. She discussed her work with Aboriginal Australian Ranger groups in northwestern Australia and the importance of integrating traditional indigenous knowledge with modern scientific approaches in conservation. She highlighted the success of the Indigenous Ranger network in managing Indigenous protected areas and the ecological significance of their work.
She also described a specific project called the Sandy Desert Fire and Biodiversity Project, which aims to understand traditional fire patterns and their impact on biodiversity in remote areas of northwestern Australia. She emphasized the importance of combining research with traditional knowledge and involving Aboriginal groups in project leadership.
The discussion touched on the challenges of acknowledging and integrating traditional knowledge into conservation practices and the gradual recognition of its importance. Hamsini also mentioned the role of recent wildfires in changing perceptions about traditional land management practices.
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Distinguished Fellow, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment | ATREE · Centre for Environment and Development
The Forests Rights Act & Fortress Conservation
Dr. Sharachchandra Lele, a distinguished fellow in environmental policy and governance at ATREE and an adjunct professor at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune, delivered a speech on the Forest Rights Act (FRA). He began by acknowledging the profound impact of the late Mr. Parthasarathy's passion for wildlife and conservation on his own journey from engineering to environmental studies. Dr. Lele shared two critical lessons he learned during this transition.
He discussed the Forest Rights Act, which seeks to correct historic injustices and recognize the democratic rights of forest-dwelling communities. Dr. Lele stressed the importance of implementing the Act effectively and democratizing conservation to achieve sustainable and just environmental policies.
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Political Ecologist and Independent Scholar
Tiger Conservation – Reality and Myths
Dr. Nitin D. Rai, a political ecologist, discussed the political ecology of tiger conservation. He criticized the "Fortress Conservation" approach that excludes local communities, leading to displacement and alienation. Rai questioned the scientific validity of claims about increasing tiger populations in such areas.
He also expressed concern about market-driven conservation, which assigns economic values to ecosystem services, potentially commodifying landscapes and rights. Dr. Rai called for a re-evaluation of conservation practices, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural and ecological connections between communities and their landscapes.
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Ethnobotanist, Professor - Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment – ATREE
The success of Forest Rights Act with the Soliga Tribes in BRT Tiger Reserves
Dr. Siddappa Setty, an ethnobotanist and professor at Atree, shared insights into the rights, livelihoods, and conservation efforts of the Soliga tribal community in the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve. He highlighted the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge into conservation efforts and described how the Soliga community's deep understanding of their forest environment contributes to sustainable resource management. Dr. Setty emphasized the significance of land tenure in empowering local communities and showcased initiatives like participatory resource monitoring, sustainable non-timber forest product (NTFP) harvesting, organic farming, and enterprise development. He also discussed the challenges posed by invasive species like Lantana and the need for evidence-based conservation practices. Overall, Dr. Setty's presentation emphasized the importance of community participation and co-management in preserving biodiversity and improving livelihoods in the BRT Tiger Reserve.
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Senior Ecologist, a practicing doctor, ethnobotanist & Todas expert
The Toda Culture & their bond with Nature even today
Dr. Tarun Chhabra, a distinguished ecologist and practicing dentist, is celebrated for his extensive knowledge of the Toda culture and expertise in ethno-botany. He founded the Toda Nallavazhvu Sangam and the EBR (Edhkwehlynawd Botanical Refuge Center Trust) to preserve the cultural heritage and environment of the Toda people in the Nilgiri Highlands. Dr. Chhabra's notable initiatives include the conservation of the endangered Toda Buffalo breed and the authorship of "The Toda Landscape Explorations in Cultural Ecology."
His presentation highlighted the profound bond between the Todas and nature, emphasizing their sustainable practices, spiritual connection with the environment, and unique ecological knowledge. Dr. Chhabra underscored the importance of ecological preservation and cultural conservation to ensure the continuation of the Toda way of life for future generations.
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Internationally renowned Nature Conservationist & Former President of The WILD Foundation, Boulder, Colorado
A Global Perspective to RE-WILDING for Conservation
Vance Martin, an internationally renowned nature conservationist and former president of the Wild Foundation, delivered a presentation on global conservation and rewilding. He emphasized the need to protect whatever nature we have today and then restore wild nature, suggesting that science indicates at least 50% of ecosystems should be preserved for the Earth to continue providing life support.
Martin highlighted the importance of reciprocity in the relationship between humans and nature, urging us to give back to what sustains us. He introduced the concept of rewilding, focusing on health, heritage, and hope as its core principles. Additionally, he discussed the Global Rewilding Alliance's work and the inclusion of indigenous rights in conservation efforts. Martin also touched upon the role of wildlife in carbon sequestration, a concept often overlooked in climate models. His presentation offered a message of positivity, hope, and the transformative power of rewilding.
In a Q&A session, Martin further emphasized rewilding as a source of hope, health, and heritage, connecting humans with their wild origins and promoting reciprocity with nature. He discussed the importance of giving people a positive answer and restoring their relationship with the environment. Overall, Vance Martin's presentation highlighted the significance of rewilding as a pathway to a more sustainable and hopeful future.
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Managing Trustee – Conservation India | Co-Founder – Wildlife for Cancer
Effective Information Data Systems and Campaigns for Focused Conservation Efforts
Mrs. Swarna Ramki, managing trustee of Conservation India, shared insights into the organization's journey and its commitment to facilitating nature conservation through reliable information and support. She highlighted the challenge of effectively communicating conservation efforts, emphasizing the birth of Conservation India over 15 years ago as a solution to the lack of a central repository for conservation information in India. The organization evolved into an enabler of wildlife conservation, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, running impactful campaigns, and advocating for policy changes.
Mr. Vikram, a long-term volunteer with Conservation India, discussed the successful Amur Falcon campaign, underscoring the importance of understanding local politics, policy, and procedures in conservation work. He introduced CI's comprehensive framework for initiating, planning, collaborating, enabling, and monitoring conservation projects. The presentation stressed the significance of patience, perseverance, and collaboration in conservation, urging generous contributions to support these vital efforts. Conservation India stands as a beacon in the realm of wildlife conservation, harnessing effective communication and collaboration to protect India's rich biodiversity for future generations.
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Former Communications Director WWF International, Author and communications consultant, Geneva, Switzerland
Paul Spencer Sochaczewski, a writer, conservationist, and communications advisor, discussed the importance of effective communication in conservation during his presentation. He emphasized the need for optimism, action, and social movements in addressing environmental challenges. He pointed out the achievements in conservation, such as multinational treaties and the inclusion of nature's rights in national constitutions.
Paul highlighted the complexities of conservation communication, including the challenge of framing environmental issues and avoiding fake narratives. He stressed the significance of knowing one's audience, creating intimacy, and finding the right balance between factual communication and emotional storytelling. In addition, he touched on the four motivators for direct marketing in conservation:
He also addressed the issue of glitzy or sensationalized communication in contrast to the seriousness of environmental problems, urging for a balance that sensitizes and educates the public. Overall, Paul Spencer emphasized the role of effective communication and marketing strategies, including these four motivators, in engaging people in conservation efforts and raising awareness about environmental issues.
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