TRUE CHAMPION

 

THE United Nations recognising the noted ecologist Dr Madhav Dhananjaya Gadgil with the coveted ‘Champions of the Earth’ award is a matter of pride for all the Indians. Already, many Indians are aware of the seminal work this field naturalist has done. But, a vast majority lost in the information explosion is still untouched by the significance of the work done by this eminent scientist. Probably, that significance will be recognised by generations to come when they start becoming a part of the solution to the much-talked environmental crisis. This award is just one celebration of the achievements of the man, who, as a child, was fascinated by the elephants. The actual celebration of his contribution to the cause of nature is out there in the form of efforts for conservation of the ecologically sensitive area of the Western Ghats. In fact, it is Dr. Gadgil who chaired the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel appointed by the Government and recommended the ghats to be declared as ecologically sensitive area.

 

This singular feat speaks of the unflailing commitment of the scientist to the cause of ecology. It is not easy to head an official panel and still speak the truth that may be unpalatable. Dr. Gadgil could do this only on the strength of courage that was rooted in his walk up and down the hills for years together. This field exposure since childhood shaped his conviction, and the family’s support turned that conviction into a rock solid determination to protect what belongs to the future generations. The child Madhav had got the gift of binocular from his father Mr. Dhananjaya Gadgil, an eminent social figure of his time.This spurred his interest in observing biodiversity -- birds, wildlife, insects, plants, vast swathes of grasslands, hills. Probably, through that binocular, he developed a vision of how to positively tilt the balance in favour of sustainability while the nation faced the non-existent dilemma of a clash between development and environment. But, was it only vision that he developed? No! He could do so because deep in his heart he knew the importance of the link between conservation and community. So, as he grew up, he made it a practice to stay with the local communities in different landscapes. A man with a firm belief in the longterm utility of wisdom passed on from one generation to the next, he tried to gain insights into conservation practices of various communities including the fishermen and the tribals. He understood and kept enriching himself on the crucial aspect of how communities conserved biodiversity, which many in the urban settings only talk about.

 

He never made bombastic statements. He silently continued searching for scientific explanations where no one would look for those. Dr. Gadgil visited sites, interacted with local communities, carefully collected pieces of evidence, applied scientific methodology to his observations, and then only spoke or wrote. Gradually, whatever he wrote assumed the status of scientific evidence. Those who have observed his work of years have a reason to believe that the conservationist follows the simple principle: Fear none, favour none, stand with the truth. Of course, the journey must not have been easy for now 82-year-old embodiment of scholarship. He faced several disagreements with powers that be, but continued ‘AWalk Up The Hill’ (which is also the title of his autobiography). The people in power rise and perish with time, but Nature stays. He worked with realisation of the biodiversity’s dynamics through his experience of spending years in the lap of Nature. Hence, even if many may disapprove of his findings and recommendations, they cannot question his commitment to the cause. Dr. Gadgil stands as a symbol of the power of honesty, the strength of truthfulness, and the courage of conviction. He is a true champion of the Earth.