Dr. Krithi K. Karanth, CEO of the Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), Bengaluru, has been awarded the 2026 Esmond B. Martin Royal Geographical Society Prize by the Royal Geographical Society (RGS). The Prize recognises outstanding individual achievement in the pursuit and application of geographical research, with a particular emphasis on wildlife conservation and environmental research.
Dr. Karanth has more than 28 years of experience as a scientist, conservationist and educator, specializing in wildlife conservation and human–wildlife interactions. She has authored over 100 scientific publications and has worked to bridge the gap between academic research and conservation impact for local people living with wildlife through multi-stakeholder, community-based initiatives and citizen science. She is a Rolex and McNulty Laureate, and a recipient of more than 50 awards and honors, including recognition as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer, a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, and the Wild Innovator. She is an Aspen and Eisenhower Fellow, and serves as Adjunct Professor at Duke University.
Dr. Karanth shares the 2026 Prize with Prof. Alexandre Antonelli, Executive Director of Science at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, whose work has advanced global understanding of plant diversity, evolution, and conservation. Together, the recipients have made significant contributions to advancing knowledge about the world’s ecosystems while translating scientific insights into practical action to safeguard biodiversity.
Dr. Karanth’s research integrates wildlife ecology with human dimensions, revealing how education, gender, livelihoods, and governance intersect with biodiversity loss and inform effective conservation strategies. Commenting on the award, Prof. Joe Smith, Director of the Royal Geographical Society, said, “The recipients of this year’s Esmond B. Martin Royal Geographical Society Prize have both made unique contributions in terms of understanding and protection of the world’s ecosystems. Krithi and Alexandre have applied hard-won new knowledge to develop innovative partnerships across government, international bodies and among members of the public. These have created tangible and wide-ranging action to protect environments and communities around the world. Their work embodies Esmond B. Martin’s conviction that geographical and related research, pursued in a spirit of collaboration, is a vital foundation for action to address the challenges facing wildlife.”
Dr. Karanth has worked at the intersection of science, policy, and community engagement through the Centre for Wildlife Studies. Under her leadership, CWS has developed award-winning programs including Wild Seve, Wild Shaale, Wild Surakshe, Wild Carbon and the Hunting & Trade Program that support communities living alongside wildlife across India. Through these initiatives, CWS currently works with thousands of villages surrounding wildlife reserves across the country, helping mitigate human-wildlife conflict, improve access to ex-gratia government compensation for wildlife-related losses, strengthen conservation education in rural schools, and promote sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking on receiving the award, Dr. Karanth said, “I am deeply humbled and profoundly honored to be the first Asian recipient of the Esmond B. Martin Royal Geographical Society Prize. To be associated with a legacy shaped by Esmond’s courage, curiosity, and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation is both a privilege and a responsibility. His pioneering work reminds us that conservation is not just about protecting species – it is about standing up for what is right, even when it is difficult. At this critical moment for our planet, the need for science-based conservation – grounded in evidence, collaboration, and courage – has never been greater. We must nurture a growing community of stewardship – people who care deeply, act boldly, and work collectively to safeguard our shared future. This prize is a catalyst; it strengthens our resolve at CWS to innovate, to scale our efforts, and to deepen partnerships across the world. Together, we will continue working to conserve India’s extraordinary wildlife and wild places – ensuring they thrive for generations to come.”
Dr. Karanth will receive the award at a ceremony hosted by the Royal Geographical Society on 13th April 2026. She and Professor Antonelli will also deliver a public lecture discussing their research and career journeys.
