Biplab Mahapatra is a well-known animal rights activist and wildlife conservationist. He belongs from Angul, Odisha and is the Chairman of People for Animals, Angul, which is affiliated to PFA, India. Mr. Mohapatra began his career as a journalist, and during the time he get after his work, he volunteered for PFA Angul treating and feeding stray dogs and animals, and actively involved in wildlife rescues and rehablitation. He also carries out various activities for protection and conservation of environment and wildlife. He has been bestowed with many awards and recognition for his notable work. He won the Biju Patanaik Wildlife Conservation Award(2016), won the Prakruti Bandhu Award (2018) and many more. Mr. Mahapatra is also associated with Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, a statutory multi-disciplinary body established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Environment and Forests. He is also the honorary animal welfare officer for the Animal Welfare Board of India, a statutory advisory body advising the Government of India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. He also holds two Limca Book of Records and one World Record with People For Animals, Angul. The Interview Times had a conversation with Mr. Biplab Mahapatra through questionnaire, below are answers he responded to the questionnaire of The Interview Times –
Q1- What motivated you to work for conservation of environment and wildlife?
Answer – There are many reasons behind which keeps me motivated to work for wildlife conservation. I am madly passionate about animals and feel a strong sense of responsibility to protect them from harm. A strong desire to preserve the natural environment and protect it for future generations. I believe it is a way to make a positive impact on the world and contribute to a greater cause. Whatever the motivation, working for wildlife conservation requires dedication, persistence, and a deep commitment to the cause. It is a challenging job but a rewarding field that can offer you a sense of purpose and fulfillment to those who are inspired by the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
Q2- Can you please tell us some of your best hobbies?
Answer – I am passionate wildlife conservationist who has dedicated his life to protecting endangered species and their habitats. When I am not working in the field, I enjoys indulging in some of his favorite hobbies that help me unwind and reconnect with nature. One of my favorite hobbies is rescuing snakes, which allows me to observe the behavior and movements of different snake species. I also enjoys hiking and trekking in the wilderness, which allows me to experience the beauty of nature up close. In addition, I love to travel and explore new destinations. Overall, my hobbies not only bring me joy and relaxation but also help me stay connected to my passion for wildlife conservation.
Q3- You are organizing many Snake awareness camps, can you tell us in details about that?
Answer – People for Animals, Angul has launched a campaign “Save Snakes” in 2013 which works to reduce negative interactions between humans and snakes by implementing mitigation strategies which will lead to peaceful coexistence. Save Snakes is dedicated exclusively to snake conservation. Our mission is to protect threatened snake populations around the world though habitat preservation, education and community outreach to create a harmonious relationship between humans and snakes. We educate communities about how to live in harmony with snakes, why snakes are important for ecosystems and how to treat snakebite. We protect snake habitat, conduct research that supports snake conservation efforts and train citizens to become “para-ecologists”, who can solve human-snake conflict and assist in snake conservation efforts. We accomplish our work by establishing trust with rural communities, providing solutions that decrease human-snake conflicts and utilizing indigenous local knowledge of wildlife. While our conservation efforts are currently focused in India, we work globally to promote our mission. We also holds a Limca Book of Records for highest number of camps organised by any Organisation in India regarding Snake Bite First Aid Education and Snake-Human conflict mitigation.
Q4 – You’re carrying out rescue and rehabilitation of animals, can you please share us about it in details?
Answer – I have dedicated my life to rescuing snakes. I have been rescuing snakes for over a decade and has saved countless lives. I am known for my expertise in handling venomous snakes and has even been called upon by the local government and urban folks to remove snakes from residential areas. I believes that snakes play a crucial role in the ecosystem and should be protected. I educates people on the importance of snakes and how to coexist with them. Rehabilitation of snakes is very crucial thing which is done under the supervision of Angul forest Department. My passion for rescuing snakes has inspired many and People For Animals, Angul continues to be a symbol of hope for wildlife conservation in Odisha.
Q5- What keeps you encouraging to work?
Answer – As a wildlife conservationist, I am driven by a deep sense of responsibility towards preserving and protecting the natural world. My passion for wildlife has been fueled by years of working in the field, witnessing firsthand the impact of human activities on biodiversity. Encountering endangered species in their natural habitats fills me with awe and wonder, encouraging me to work towards ensuring their survival. Additionally, I recognizes that conservation requires an interdisciplinary approach involving scientific research, community engagement, policy advocacy and on-ground implementation. This multifaceted nature of the work serves as an additional source of inspiration for me, something that, I believes provides opportunities for learning and constant self-improvement. Furthermore, I had found that the satisfaction gained from successfully implementing conservation initiatives is unrivaled, as it comes with the knowledge that my actions are making a meaningful difference to our planet’s future.
Q6- What are your visions and future plans for your organization?
Answer – I aims to initiate innovative policies for the preservation and protection of wildlife. I envisions a future where wildlife coexists harmoniously with human beings. My ultimate goal is to create awareness among people about the importance of maintaining ecological balance by conserving biodiversity. I intends to develop technological solutions to mitigate threats faced by endangered species and enhance their populations. I also plans on increasing collaboration between governments, NGOs, scientists, local communities, and other stakeholders to conserve natural habitats and reduce human-wildlife conflicts. I advocates for evidence-based decision making in policy formulation and implementation based on research outcomes rather than purely subjective opinions or rhetoric. In conclusion, I aims to promote smart management of resources while ensuring that natural systems remain resilient for generations to come.
Photo Credits – Mr. Biplab Mahapatra
Interviewtimes 
