For nearly four decades, B K Singh, a 1976-batch Indian Forest Service officer of the Karnataka cadre, dedicated his career to protecting forests and wildlife.
From the forests of Uttara Kannada to the challenging terrain of Kollegal, where Veerappan and his gang posed a serious threat, Singh led from the front. He walked through difficult forest landscapes, faced smugglers and poachers, took firm decisions on forest protection and later served as Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Karnataka.
As Chief Wildlife Warden and in various conservation roles after retirement, Singh continued to work on issues including protected-area management, habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict and forest conservation.
At the Eco Warrior Awards 2026, organised by Indian Masterminds in association with the Indian Forest Service Association, B K Singh was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his long contribution to forests and wildlife conservation.
In this conversation, he looks back at his journey, the lessons he learnt in the field, his encounter with Veerappan’s gang, the importance of senior officers leading from the front, and why protecting forests remains a responsibility that cannot be compromised.
“ If they do not protect forests, who else will do that?”
Watch the full story to know more about the remarkable career and conservation legacy of B K Singh.
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