Whitley Award for Deepak Apte

One of the world’s most prestigious awards for grassroots nature conservation was awarded to Deepak Apte, marine biologist with the Bombay Natural History Society for his work in the Lakshadweep Islands.

Apte was presented the Whitley Award by Princess Anne at a glittering ceremony held at theRoyal Geographical Society, London, by The Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN) – the UK-based charity. Apte’s work with islanders to monitor and protect the marine biodiversity of the islands has resulted in the declaration of the Agatti Conservation Reserve. The archipelago could also soon become India’s first interconnected network of Protected Areas. The Whitley Award includes a cash prize of £30,000 and assured long-term support and future funding opportunities.

February 2009