Indian Wildlife Scientist Krithi K. Karanth Named National Geographic’s 2026 Explorer of the Year
The National Geographic Society has recognized Krithi K. Karanth as the 2026 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year.
Indian Wildlife Scientist Krithi K. Karanth has recently received a notable international accolade, making India proud on a global scale. The National Geographic Society has recognized her as the 2026 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year. As a distinguished scientist, conservationist, and educator, Karanth acts as the CEO of the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), a nonprofit dedicated to preserving India’s rich biodiversity. This honor highlights her groundbreaking contributions to human-wildlife coexistence and her dedication to safeguarding the nation’s endangered wildlife and natural habitats.
What To Know About Krithi K. Karanth
Krithi K. Karanth has dedicated nearly 30 years to conservation, merging in-depth research with impactful action. Since joining the National Geographic Society in 2011 as the first recipient of its 10,000th grant, she has earned multiple grants and honors, widening her exploration to tackle the complex relationship between wildlife and communities. Under her innovative leadership at the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), scientific insights have turned into significant achievements aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflicts across India.
So far, CWS has made meaningful strides, reaching 7,000 villages and benefiting around 100,000 people while influencing millions indirectly. Additionally, the organization has shared valuable conservation education with over 1,600 schools, building resources in seven Indian languages tailored for 39 wildlife reserves. Krithi's visionary approach not only addresses ecological challenges but also fosters community engagement, creating holistic strategies for coexistence.
What Is The Rolex National Geographic Explorer Of The Year Award
The Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year award is a prestigious recognition given by the Society, intended for individuals whose works capture the spirit of exploration and highlight significant contributions to environmental conservation. This accolade will be awarded during the Society’s annual Explorers Festival, in partnership with Rolex, a long-time collaborator of the Society.
“Krithi embodies the very best of what it means to be a National Geographic Explorer,” said Jill Tiefenthaler, CEO of the National Geographic Society. Adding to this, Krithi said, “To be named Explorer of the Year by the National Geographic Society and Rolex is an incredible milestone,” said Karanth. This recognition provides a distinguished global platform to elevate our innovative, impactful and scalable conservation programs while fostering empathy, deepening impact and promoting a collective stewardship of the natural world.”
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