An environmentalist named Y Nuklu Phom from Nagaland has received the prestigious Green Oscar for his contribution to improving biodiversity and creating community-owned forests in the state. This Green Oscar award is also known as ____________.

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Whitley Award

The Whitley Award, often referred to as the “Green Oscar”, is a prestigious international award given annually by the Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN), a UK-based charity. The award recognises grassroots conservation leaders in the Global South who have made significant contributions to wildlife and biodiversity conservation. In this context, Y Nuklu Phom, an environmentalist from Nagaland, India, was honoured with this award for his pioneering work in mobilising community-owned forest conservation efforts and promoting biodiversity in the region.

His efforts in creating the Yaongyimchen Community Biodiversity Area, covering more than 100 sq km, reflect sustainable development and local participation in conservation, making his recognition truly global.

• The Whitley Award was instituted in 1994 by Edward Whitley and is awarded annually.

• Recipients receive a grant of up to £40,000 to scale their conservation efforts.

• The award focuses on locally-based leadership in wildlife conservation in the Global South.

• Y Nuklu Phom’s project involved over 16 villages and is based on ecological restoration, particularly of hornbill habitats.

• The award is sometimes called the “Green Oscar” due to its high recognition in the field of biodiversity.

• The winners are honoured in a ceremony held in London, often attended by British royalty like Princess Anne.

• India has had multiple Whitley Award recipients, showing the country's strong base of community-level environmental activism.

Additional Information:

• Earthshot Award – Launched in 2020 by Prince William, focusing on global climate solutions. It offers £1 million to each winner for environmental innovations.

• Volvo Environment Award – Established in 1990, it recognises scientific, social, and entrepreneurial achievements that support sustainable development.

• Sophie Award – Founded in 1997 in Norway in memory of Sophie Maguire, it supports writing and action on environment and development.