Renowned Ecologist Madhav Gadgil wins Tyler Prize 2015 along with Dr. Jane Lubchenco

Renowned Indian Ecologist Madhav Gadgil has won the prestigious Tyler Prize 2015 for Environmental Achievement. He will share this prize with noted American marine ecologist and environmental scientist Jane Lubchenco.
Both of them were chosen for this year’s prize for their pioneering work, leadership and engagement in the development of conservation and sustainability policies in the United States, India and internationally.
Madhav Gadgil

• He was the chairman of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) which is famously known as Gadgil Commission.
• Gadgil was chosen for this prize for leading WGEEP and producing landmark report on the preservation of the unique ecosystem of the Western Ghats and the inclusion of local committees which led the voice on environmental issues in India.
• He also had played leading role in crafting of India’s National Biodiversity Act, 2002.

Dr. Jane Lubchenco
She was chosen for this award for her dedication in raising awareness for protection of ocean ecosystems and its importance during her tenure as administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

About the Tyler Prize

• Instituted in 1973. John and Alice Tyler are the founders of prize.
• Awarded by International Tyler Prize Executive Committee. The administrative support to committee is provided by the University of Southern California.
• It recognizes and honours persons for their exceptional dedication for environmental science, environmental health, and energy.
• Award carries monetary prize of US $ 200000 along with a gold medallion.

Note- Madhav Gadgil is second Indian to receive this prize. First was Father of Indian Green Revolution MS Swaminathan in 1991. He was awarded for his contribution to improve crop yields in India.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2015