Madhya Pradesh Officer Ritesh Sarothia Wins International UN Award for Tiger Conservation

Madhya Pradesh is rightly known as the Tiger State of India — not only because it has the highest number of tigers but also because of the relentless efforts made to protect them and combat poaching. To strengthen these efforts, the state established the State Tiger Strike Force.

Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer Ritesh Sarothia, serving as the Deputy Conservator of Forests, has been a key figure in this mission. Under his leadership, more than 1,000 offenders involved in forest and wildlife crimes have been arrested. Known as a fearless protector of wildlife, poachers reportedly fear his name.

His dedication and excellence in preventing wildlife and forest crimes have not only been recognized nationally but also internationally. For his remarkable contributions, Ritesh Sarothia has been honored with an international award by the United Nations.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has conferred upon him the Asia Environmental Enforcement Recognition of Excellence Award 2024-25. The award was presented on October 17, 2025, during a virtual ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand. Notably, this is not his first recognition—he has received three international awards prior to this as well.

The award is given by the United Nations to individuals and government agencies demonstrating exceptional performance in enforcing national laws related to cross-border forest and wildlife crime investigations. It recognizes efforts against illegal trade in endangered species, minerals, sand, hazardous chemicals, pesticides, ozone-depleting substances, and hydrofluorocarbons.

This achievement highlights Madhya Pradesh’s leadership in wildlife conservation and reinforces India’s global reputation in environmental protection and law enforcement.