Reimagining National Parks Inspires Conservation – Corbett Seminar Sparks Sensational Change

New Delhi, Aug.11,2025: The seminar’s keynote, delivered by Professor Ashutosh Kumar (Head, DCEE, DU), set the tone with Reimagining National Parks—a call to evolve from mere visitors to

From Sanctuary to Sensibility

The seminar’s keynote, delivered by Professor Ashutosh Kumar (Head, DCEE, DU), set the tone with Reimagining National Parks—a call to evolve from mere visitors to “ecological storytellers.” He urged students to amplify their voices for sustainable policy, recognizing the deep ties between urban life and wilderness vitality.

History Meets Reality

Mr. Rajiv Bhartari (I.F.S. retired, Consultant in Protected Area Management) offered a sweeping overview—from the park’s founding as Hailey National Park in 1936 to the pivotal Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. He also highlighted a modern dilemma: overtourism, which strains ecosystems while offering economic gain.

Ecological Imbalance

Freelance naturalist Imran Khan, owner of Rangers Lodge homestay, revealed how past choices—like planting teak and eucalyptus—have weakened biodiversity. He championed the restoration of native Sal forests to rebuild ecological resilience.

Tourism’s Carbon Toll

Mr. Ram Pratap, Director of the Indian School of Naturalist, framed overtourism as part of a global problem: tourism contributes ~8% of global carbon emissions. He urged sustainable park operations, local community involvement, and tougher regulatory frameworks to preserve India’s conservation reputation.

Individual Action Matters

Swami Prem Parivartan, popularly known as Peepal Baba and Founder of @givemetreestrust, invoked the power of one—individuals plant and preserve. He fused ecology with spirituality, reinforcing how personal responsibility deepens environmental connection.

A Transformative Encounter

Faisal Rizvi, Director at Etroupers Consultants, shared how an unplanned tiger encounter transformed his view of the jungle—not merely a spectacle but a complex, interconnected world demanding respect and defense.

Institutional Impact and Community Drive

The event galvanized students and faculty, strengthening the university’s mission to cultivate ecological consciousness through collaboration. Voices from varied domains—history, science, personal story—united to show that real conservation hinges on collective wisdom and passion.

Vote of Thanks & Collective Vision

Organizers delivered heartfelt thanks to all speakers for their invaluable insights, to the University of Delhi students whose engagement brought energy, and to sponsors Manu Maharani Resort, Aahana Resort, and Digital9 whose support made the event possible. Their partnership underscores that safeguarding our natural heritage is a shared endeavor—one that this seminar inspires us to continue.