Dr Satya Prakash (SP) Yadav, the Director General of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) and a prominent face of India’s wildlife conservation efforts, was conferred with the International Crystal Compass Award by the Russian Geographical Society. The award was presented on 29 May 2025, during a grand ceremony held in Moscow.
Dr Yadav is a 1989 batch IFS (Indian Forest Service) officer from Uttar Pradesh cadre.
This award recognizes Dr Yadav’s outstanding leadership and contribution to the global success of Project Tiger, India’s flagship wildlife conservation initiative aimed at protecting the endangered tiger population.
Symbol of Global Recognition
In his statement, Dr Yadav expressed that the award was not just a personal honor but a tribute to collective national efforts in tiger conservation. He emphasized that this recognition belongs to the Government of India, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), various State Forest Departments, the Wildlife Institute of India, civil society organizations, local communities, and thousands of frontline staff and officers who work relentlessly to safeguard India’s tiger reserves.
“This award is a recognition of the tireless efforts made by all stakeholders – government bodies, scientific institutions, NGOs, communities, and especially the brave frontline staff who dedicate their lives to tiger conservation throughout the year,” said Dr Yadav.
Dr @SPYadavIFS, Director General, IBCA, was conferred with the International #CrystalCompassAward by the Russian Geographical Society @rgo_ru, for his leadership & contribution in success of #ProjectTiger 🇮🇳, in a grand ceremony at #Moscow on 29 May, 2025!
— International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) (@IBCA_official) May 30, 2025
Dr Yadav said that… pic.twitter.com/mK2w6ttyNs
About the Crystal Compass Award
The Crystal Compass Award is one of the most esteemed international recognitions in the field of geography, ecology, and conservation. It is presented by the Russian Geographical Society to individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage.
India’s Global Leadership in Tiger Conservation
India’s Project Tiger, launched in 1973, has grown into the largest species conservation program of its kind in the world. With over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population, India’s efforts have been hailed internationally. Under Dr. Yadav’s leadership, India has set global benchmarks in habitat protection, scientific monitoring, and community participation.
About IBCA
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global initiative launched by India in 2023 to facilitate collaboration in the protection and conservation of seven big cat species: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah.
