S. Jones Justin, a 2018 batch Indian Forest Service officer, has transformed the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve with his innovative and community-driven approach. As the Deputy Field Director, he led numerous initiatives that blend wildlife conservation with local empowerment. In 2024, he was awarded the “Community Connect” category at the Eco Warrior Awards for his work in securing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Sundarbans Mouban Honey.
This GI tag elevated the honey’s market value, directly benefiting local beekeepers and improving their livelihoods. The recognition also highlighted the region’s unique ecological contributions, creating a win-win for both conservation and the community. But Mr. Jones’s work doesn’t stop there. He spearheaded the elimination of plastic in the Sundarbans and introduced the first-ever floating jetty to help local communities navigate the region’s high tides.
His efforts in wildlife conservation are equally groundbreaking. From rewilding the Batagur baska turtle to pioneering GPS tracking and population studies of the endangered fishing cat and saltwater crocodile, Mr. Jones is reshaping conservation in the Sundarbans. Through his visionary leadership, he is not just preserving nature—he’s ensuring it thrives alongside the local communities that depend on it.
In this video interview, we’ll delve into all of Mr. Jones’s transformative work—from his innovative conservation strategies to his community-centered initiatives. His visionary leadership is not just preserving nature but ensuring it thrives alongside the local communities that depend on it.
Watch the full interview here-
