India: Gopal Thosar, 76, who was chosen for Nagpur Heroes award under the green category, is a known face among conservationists, forest department and education field. A science and maths teacher by profession, Thosar is more of a diehard wildlife lover and has created generations of young birders and wildlife buffs. Opted VRS after 20 years of service to pursue his passion, Thosar hogged limelight when he launched a struggle to save historic Sonegaon lake from the clutches of builders. He along with his few colleagues re-established presence of GIB in Vidarbha in 1991 when it was assumed by ornithologists that there were none. Since 1980, he, along with Dr Anil Pimplapure, is tirelessly doing status survey of GIB in Vidarbha and is making concerted efforts to save this majestic bird from extinction. He is also founder member of Vidarbha Nature and Human Science (VNHS) & Maharashtra Pakshi Mitra Manch and founder president of Vasundhara. He was honorary district wildlife warden for nearly a decade. His 50 years of experience in the field of learning animal and bird behaviour proves to be inspiring not only for officials but new comers too. Thosar shares his feelings in an interview. (Source : The Times of India)