WWF Nepal has announced the winners of the WWF Nepal Conservation Awards 2026, recognizing individuals whose dedication and sacrifice have made significant contributions to protecting Nepal’s biodiversity, environment, and natural resources.
This year’s award recipients include conservation advocate Manju Mahatara, wildlife researcher Suman Sapkota, and late environmental defender Om Prakash Mahato, who was honored posthumously for his courage in fighting environmental crime. WWF Nepal said the awards celebrate individuals who continue to strengthen Nepal’s conservation movement and inspire future generations to protect nature and wildlife.
Manju Mahatara Recognized for Grassroots Conservation Leadership
Manju Mahatara received the award for her longstanding efforts in promoting environmental awareness, eco-tourism, and human-wildlife coexistence in areas surrounding Bardiya National Park. A dedicated nature guide and conservation advocate, Mahatara has worked extensively with local communities, especially children, to promote awareness about safe coexistence with wildlife through programs such as “Living with Leopard.”
WWF Nepal stated that she has also played a crucial role in grassroots anti-poaching efforts as a former chairperson and active member of the Community-Based Anti-Poaching Unit under the Bardiya Hattisar Unit. Her work has made her a respected local conservation leader and an example of women’s leadership in environmental protection.
Suman Sapkota Honored for Wildlife Research and Mentorship
Wildlife researcher Suman Sapkota was recognized for his pioneering research on Nepal’s threatened and lesser-known species, particularly amphibians. According to WWF Nepal, Sapkota conducted Nepal’s first research on amphibian dietary ecology and has contributed to studies involving several endangered species, including the Clouded Leopard, Dhole, Pangolin, Asiatic Black Bear, and bats.
Beyond field research, he has actively mentored young conservationists, training more than 250 students and conducting awareness programs for over 700 people on amphibian conservation. His work earned international recognition in 2024 when he was named a Future Leader for Amphibian Conservation by the Amphibian Survival Alliance.
Late Om Prakash Mahato Remembered as Symbol of Environmental Justice
Late Om Prakash Mahato was honored posthumously for his bravery in confronting illegal riverbed mining in Dhanusha district. WWF Nepal described Mahato as a symbol of courage and environmental justice who stood firmly against illegal sand extraction activities from the Aurahi River despite repeated threats.
On January 10, 2020, Mahato was killed while attempting to stop illegal mining operations that were damaging local ecosystems and threatening community livelihoods. His death sparked nationwide concern and became one of Nepal’s most prominent environmental justice cases.
WWF Nepal stated that Mahato’s legacy continues to remind society that meaningful conservation is deeply connected with justice, accountability, and the protection of environmental defenders working on the frontlines. The organization also extended respect and condolences to Mahato’s family for accepting the award on his behalf.
Legacy of Nepal’s Prestigious Conservation Award
The WWF Nepal Conservation Awards were originally introduced in 1995 as the Abraham Conservation Awards by environmentalist Nancy Abraham after she was inspired by the commitment shown by national park staff toward conservation work.
The awards were later renamed as the WWF Nepal Conservation Awards and have continued honoring grassroots conservationists and institutions contributing significantly to biodiversity protection and sustainable environmental management. Since their establishment, a total of 192 individuals and organizations have been recognized through the awards.
Wide Range of Conservation Categories
The awards cover several themes, including biodiversity conservation, climate change response, sustainable development, environmental education, youth leadership, pollution control, and environmental journalism. WWF Nepal said the initiative aims to motivate frontline conservationists and encourage broader public participation in protecting Nepal’s rich natural heritage.
