Other Key Functionaries
Dr. Nudrat Zawar Sayed
National Coordinator
She holds a doctoral degree in Botany from Mumbai University with specialization in conservation of forest trees. She is an academician and researcher in the field of environment and allied field forestry, wildlife and environmental conservation. She also has experience of working on Regional and Zonal Master plans of Eco-sensitive Zones
Mr. Umesh Dhotekar
Regional Coordinator – Central Region
A retired forest officer from Maharashtra cadre with 29 years of experience in handling all issues related to forest and wildlife. His expertise lies in capacity building of forest staff and communities living in the forest. He also has vast experience in dealing with situations of Human-Wildlife Conflict.
Mr. Ishteyaque Patel
Field Biologist and RS-GIS Analyst
His expertise lies in Technology Development and its applications. He is actively involved in the applications of Remote Sensing, GIS, GPS, Allied Technologies and Networking in forest wildlife and environmental conservation. He is adept in estimation of wildlife populations using the latest tools and technologies. Apart from this, he has been actively involved in education and awareness generation programs and all the field-based activities of the organization. He is also specialised in theme-specific Ecological Status Models. His forte is, providing field based support to various State Forest Departments through the organisation’s initiatives.
Mr. Popatrao. B. Bhalekar
Regional Coordinator (Western Maharashtra)
He has 30 years of experience in the Maharashtra Forest Department and retired as a Divisional Forest Officer, Wildlife. He has vast experience of working on Water Shed Management, Catchment Area Treatment Plans, bamboo cultivation and community land afforestation programs. He also has experience in wildlife management, habitat improvement and Human Wildlife Conflict (HWC) management.
Ms. Rafat Sayed
Office Manager
20 years of experience in managing a wide array of establishments ranging from craft centre to academy. Adept at handling issues related to office administration.