Honoring Conservation Champions: SCSN Hosts 8th Annual Snake Conservation Award Ceremony
The Snake Conservation Society Nepal (SCSN) proudly hosted its 8th Annual Snake Conservation Award Distribution Program, a significant event dedicated to recognizing individuals and institutions making outstanding contributions to snake conservation across Nepal. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the tireless efforts being made to protect and raise awareness about these often-misunderstood reptiles.
Celebrating Unsung Heroes of Reptile Conservation
This year, ten dedicated snake rescuers, all members of SCSN, were honored for their exceptional work in snake rescue, public awareness, and conservation advocacy. These individuals have not only risked their own safety but have also played a critical role in promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and snakes. The award recipients were:
Sudharshan Poudel (Arson Chhetri)
Prithvi Narayan Sharma
Abhisek Sapkota
Sagar Pandey
Shambhu Singh Thakuri
Niroj Karki
Isori Pandey
Prem Bahadur Bista
Khan Bittu Mohammad
Aakash Bhandari
Their efforts continue to inspire local communities to shift perceptions and foster a culture of compassion and coexistence with Nepal’s native snake species.
A Legacy Honored: The Late Mahendra Prasad Katila Sustainability Fund
A special certificate of appreciation was presented to Mr. Bharat Katila, on behalf of the Late Mahendra Prasad Katila Sustainability (Akshya Kosh) Fund, represented by Ms. Banita Katila. This recognition honors the legacy of Late Mahendra Prasad Katila, the former Chairperson of SCSN and a pioneering figure in Nepal’s snake conservation movement. His lifelong dedication to reptile conservation and public education left a profound impact on the field. The sustainability fund established in his memory continues to support educational outreach and awareness programs, carrying forward his vision of a more informed and respectful society toward snakes.
Recognizing Historic Milestones in Local Conservation
Letters of Appreciation were also awarded to Mr. Keshab Raj Sapkota and Mr. Prakash Chandra Sapkota for their instrumental roles in declaring the King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) as the official “Ward Snake” of Ward No. 18, Pokhara Metropolitan City. This groundbreaking designation represents the first local government recognition of a snake species in Nepal, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to integrating wildlife conservation at the grassroots governance level.
Strengthening Partnerships for Greater Impact
The program also extended heartfelt thanks to Friends of Nature, a long-standing partner organization that has consistently supported SCSN’s conservation initiatives. Through collaborative campaigns, educational outreach, and field programs, Friends of Nature has helped amplify the message of snake conservation to a broader audience, making these efforts more inclusive and impactful.
Building a Conservation Movement
The 8th Annual Award Ceremony not only recognized individual achievements but also symbolized the growth of a community-driven conservation movement in Nepal—one that combines scientific knowledge, public engagement, and local leadership. By acknowledging the dedication of rescuers, educators, and advocates, SCSN reaffirms its commitment to protecting Nepal’s rich reptilian biodiversity and fostering a future where humans and snakes coexist in harmony.
