Dr. Parikshit Gautam, Director, Freshwater & Wetlands, WWF India with released gharial © WWF-India
We are deeply saddened to hear about the untimely passing away of Dr Parikshit Gautam, former Director (Freshwater and Wetlands) of WWF-India. Besides being a good worker he was an exceptional individual. His sudden departure at a young age is a cruel shock.
During the formative years, Dr Gautam made significant contributions to shaping the national wetlands programme. His notable contributions included establishing a work programme on high-altitude wetlands, expanding the Ramsar site network through the designation of Ramsar Sites, school education programmes, participatory wetlands management planning protocols, and capacity development of wetlands managers at various levels. He worked very closely with Wetlands International South Asia on these programmes and was a great friend and well-wisher of the organisation.
WISA mourns the loss of a talented mind, a passionate manager, and a kind soul. His work and contributions will continue to inspire and benefit wetland managers in the future. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this devastating time. May they find strength and solace in the memories of his remarkable life.
Dr Sidharth Kaul, President, Wetlands International South Asia – “Personally, I have lost a dear friend who worked with me on different national and international platforms. May God give peace to his noble soul.”