In a proud moment for Darjeeling and the country, conservationist Barkha Subba has been awarded the prestigious Whitley Award, often referred to as the “Green Oscar”, for her work in protecting the rare Himalayan salamander and its fragile wetland habitats.
The award was presented on Thursday at a ceremony held at the Royal Geographical Society in London. The honour is conferred annually by the Whitley Fund for Nature to individuals making significant contributions to environmental conservation.
Selected from 270 applicants worldwide, Subba was among 12 finalists and emerged as one of this year’s winners. She also received a grant of approximately Rs 50 lakh to further her conservation efforts.
Subba serves as a scientific adviser to the Federation of Societies for Environmental Protection (FOSEP). Her award-winning project, titled “Survivor of a Lost World: Saving the Himalayan Salamander and its Wetlands,” focuses on protecting seven critical breeding sites across the Darjeeling hills, including Margaret’s Hope, Nakhapani, the Namthing Biodiversity Heritage Site, Majidhura, Pokhriabong, and wetlands in Mirik.
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The Himalayan salamander, listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, is found in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Subba noted that only around 30 breeding sites remain in Darjeeling. “These species return to their birthplace to breed, making them extremely sensitive to even minor environmental changes,” she said.
Her work includes restoring endangered wetlands, monitoring fungal infections such as chytrid fungus, and promoting eco-tourism, while actively involving local communities.
Speaking after receiving the award, Subba emphasised the role of grassroots efforts. “Local communities have been protecting this species long before any funding or recognition. These wetlands are deeply tied to culture and tradition,” she said.
She also outlined her long-term vision of creating a transboundary wetland conservation framework across India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Congratulating her achievement, Rajya Sabha MP Harsh Vardhan Shringla said it was a matter of pride for the region. Environmentalists believe the recognition will strengthen conservation efforts in the ecologically fragile Himalayan belt.
Kurseong Divisional Forest Officer Devesh Pandey also praised Subba’s work, stating that the Forest Department would continue to collaborate with local communities to protect the species.
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