Conservationist

National Trust for Nature Conservation

Since 1982, the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) has quietly shaped the future of Nepal’s natural heritage. Established through a legislative act, an autonomous, non-profit organization has led over 300 projects across the country focused on biodiversity conservation, climate change, clean energy, ecotourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable development. But what makes NTNC truly remarkable is its people-centered approach to conservation.

For NTNC, protecting nature is not just about saving forests and wildlife. It’s about partnering with the communities who live alongside them. Whether it’s promoting clean energy, protecting cultural heritage, or supporting sustainable tourism, NTNC places communities at the center. Conservation, in their vision, is a balance between economics, environment, and ethics.

From the towering peaks of Annapurna to the lowlands of Protected Areas, NTNC’s work reflects the incredible ecological and cultural diversity of Nepal, managing three Himalayan protected areas- Annapurna, Manaslu, and Gaurishankar. The Annapurna Conservation Area Project supports over 1,00,000 residents while protecting vast Himalayan ecosystems. In Manaslu and Gaurishankar, NTNC helps develop ecotourism and local partnerships that protect both wildlife and livelihoods. In the lowland (Tarai) region, the focus is on biodiversity and empowering community institutions. Even in the city, NTNC plays a vital role—managing the Central Zoo in Lalitpur, a hub for conservation education and wildlife research.

NTNC also takes on enormous challenges like climate change. Through research on vulnerable species such as the greater one-horned rhinoceros and look for ways to help them adapt. Research, education, and nature-based economies are all part of the broader mission.

In a rapid environment and social changing world, NTNC’s story is one of collaboration, resilience, and hope. It demonstrates that when conservation includes local voices and respects local knowledge; the results go beyond protecting nature—they help build a more sustainable and connected future for all.

Dr. Peter Prokosch

Peter Prokosch – A Lifelong Commitment to Conservation

Peter Prokosch has dedicated his career to global nature conservation, with a special focus on Arctic ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainable tourism. As a seasoned conservationist, he has played a pivotal role in initiatives that bridge science, policy, and environmental advocacy. His work has taken him to some of the world's most fragile and breathtaking landscapes, where he has championed efforts to protect wildlife and promote responsible ecotourism.

As the founder of Linking Tourism & Conservation (LT&C), Peter has worked to demonstrate how tourism can actively support protected areas and conservation efforts worldwide. His contributions continue to inspire and shape the way we think about conservation-driven travel and the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

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Mohammad Firoz Ahmed

M. Firoz Ahmed, has been associated with Aaranyak since 1994 as a volunteer and subsequently started managing conservation projects of Aaranyak in 1999. Dr. Ahmed has received several capacity building and professional training in conservation research and conservation project management. He is an avid researcher and has discovered several new species of amphibians including Orang Sticky Frog, Assamese Balloon Frog, Assamese Cascade Frog. His team works across the Eastern Himalaya and the Northeast India region on multiple groups of species and conservation livelihood interventions. Since 2000, he has developed, managed or co-managed over 70 conservation projects with significant contributions to biodiversity conservation in the NE India region. Currently, he is leading Manas Tiger Conservation Program that integrates Conservation Livelihoods, Education and Law Enforcement to secure tiger, prey animals and habitats through community participation. He also leads the Participatory Natural Resource Management Program at the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape of Assam that focuses on conservation livelihoods and NRM by the indigenous Karbi community. He has been leading the Tiger Research Conservation Division of Aaranyak since 2007 and strengthening the conservation of Tigers, Prey Animals and Habitats in the region. Dr Ahmed has received awards and honors in recognition to his impactful contribution to conservation, viz. Sanctuary Wildlife Service Award 2006 and Carl Zeiss Wildlife Conservation Award 2010. He has published two field guides, technical reports and over forty scientific communications. Dr. Ahmed has been a member to the national level statutory conservation policy bodies like the Forest Advisory Committee and the National Tiger Conservation Authority of the Ministry of Environment and Forest Govt. of India.