Renowned Veterinarian K. Asokan Wins Awards for Wildlife Management & Conservation

K.Asokan, a veterinary assistant surgeon with the Animal Husbandry Department in Kovilpalayam near Pollachi, has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to wildlife management and conservation. The awards were presented by the Environment, Climate Change, and Forest Department, and were given in recognition of Dr. Asokan's dedicated service in the field.

During an event held in Chennai on June 6, Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Siva V. Meyyanathan, presented Dr. Asokan with two prestigious awards. The first award was for environment protection and wildlife management for the year 2019, while the second award was for environmental education for the year 2021. The ceremony took place on World Environment Day, further highlighting the significance of Dr. Asokan's accomplishments.

Dr. Asokan attributed his success to his extensive experience and various activities carried out in the field of wildlife conservation. As a wildlife veterinarian at the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) until January 2022, he actively participated in rescue and treatment efforts for wild animals, birds, and reptiles. Additionally, he focused on environmental education initiatives, contributing to the promotion of conservation awareness among the public.

His efforts were recognized not only by the Environment, Climate Change, and Forest Department but also by the Anna Medal for Gallantry, which he received last year. This prestigious honour was bestowed upon Dr. Asokan in acknowledgment of his bravery and dedication in saving wild elephants and protecting people.

Dr. Asokan's career in wildlife management spans over three decades. Since joining the Animal Husbandry Department in 1990, he has worked closely with the Forest Department, serving as a wildlife veterinarian for 12 years. His expertise has been utilized in prominent tiger reserves, including the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve and the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Additionally, he served as the Director of the mini zoological park operated by the Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation.

During his tenure at the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, Dr. Asokan spearheaded a significant project involving the implantation of radio transmitters in Indian rock pythons. This study aimed to gather essential data through telemetry research, contributing to a better understanding of the species and their habitats.

Among the many responsibilities, Dr. Asokan has undertaken rearing orphaned elephant calves has been both challenging and rewarding. Throughout his career, he has cared for approximately 20 orphaned calves, including Ammu, also known as Bommi, who gained fame after being featured in the Oscar-winning documentary "Elephant Whisperers." Dr. Asokan provided dedicated care to Ammu for 25 days before the calf was transferred to the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.

Reflecting on his accomplishments, Dr. Asokan expressed immense pride in receiving recognition from esteemed veterinarian V. Krishnamurthy, fondly referred to as the "elephant doctor." In 1998, Dr. Krishnamurthy commended Dr. Asokan for his exceptional care of orphaned elephant calves, and this remains a cherished accolade for him. The award ceremony was attended by Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the Environment, Climate Change, and Forest Department.