In the 11th edition of NatWest Group’s Earth Heroes Awards, DFO Nitish Kumar from Odisha’s North Kalahandi division was the recipient of the ‘Green Warriors Award 2021’. The awards were given in 8 different categories in a virtual ceremony that was chaired by Ms. Ivonne Higuero, Secretary General, Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna & Flora (CITES), UN.
‘A resilient nature is the foundation on which all climate mitigation and adaptation efforts must be raised’ was the theme for the year 2021.
RBS (A NatWest Group Company) institutionalized the NatWest Group Earth Heroes Awards (formerly known as RBS Earth Heroes Awards) in 2011, which takes place annually. The awards are an attempt to bring recognition and honors to individuals and institutions who work exceptionally hard to preserve and protect critical ecosystems. The nominations are received from across the country and the winners are selected by an eminent jury comprising experts from the field of wildlife conservation, bio-diversity management, science, government, media and the NatWest Group.
DFO Nitish Kumar is known for his excellent works and technology friendly methods for wildlife conservation and Forest fire protection. He joined IFS as ACF in 2014. He formed fire control rapid response team in the forest area of Kalahandi north division as rapid fire in forest area is the main reason for habitat degradation. He was the first to introduce drone technology in Odisha’s forest department for plant health mapping and monitoring of movements of elephants for early warnings to communities to restrict man-elephant conflicts. In 2019, one of his publications, ‘Application of GIS and Drone Technology in forestry & wildlife’ was also launched.
