The Central University of Odisha, Koraput awarded a Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) upon Prof Madhav Gadgil, an eminent ecologist and environmental scientist.
Union Minister of Rural Development Jairam Ramesh conferred the degree upon Prof Gadgil at a special programme organised by the university in New Delhi on Sunday. University Chancellor Prof K Srinath Reddy presided over the function. University Vice-Chancellor Prof Surabhi Banerjee was present.
Prof Gadgil has been largely responsible for introducing careful quantitative investigations in ecology and animal behaviour as well as viewing humans as an integral component of ecosystems to India. He founded the Centre for Ecological Sciences at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, which has developed strong traditions of working with other researchers, teachers, policy makers and NGO workers, farmers and other citizens throughout the country. This has led to innovative experiments of involving High School and college teachers and students in inventorying and monitoring of biodiversity.