THACKERAY WILDLIFE FOUNDATION

Exploring Biodiversity.
Empowering Conservation.

Explore Our Work

OUR MISSION

At TWF, we take a holistic approach to conservation, emphasizing the protection of biodiversity as a whole.

Through field and museum-based research, on-field conservation actions, and community engagement, we strive to document, protect, and restore ecosystems. Our multidisciplinary team bridges the gap between science and society, fostering collaboration to make biodiversity conservation accessible to all.

Protecting Across India.
Years of Conservation Efforts
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New Species Discovered
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Plants Rescued & Relocated
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Protecting India's Hidden Treasures

India’s landscapes are home to incredible biodiversity, yet many lesser-known species are quietly nearing extinction due to rapid development. While a ecosystems remain untouched, countless overlooked species are disappearing before they’re even fully understood.

At Thackeray Wildlife Foundation (TWF), we are committed to studying and conserving these vital yet often ignored species that play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Founded by Tejas Thackeray in 2019, TWF bridges scientific research with on-the-ground conservation, ensuring that India’s rich biodiversity is safeguarded for future generations.

With your support, we can expand our impact, implement innovative conservation strategies, and protect India’s natural heritage before it’s too late.

What We Do

Research

With 65+ peer-reviewed publications, TWF has made significant contributions, including the discovery of 66 new lizard species, 20 new species of freshwater crabs, and three new fish species, among others.

Notable findings include Rakthamichthys Mumba, a blind subterranean eel from Mumbai, and critical biogeographic insights, such as the role of granite boulders as climate refugia. Through extensive fieldwork spanning 50,000+ km, TWF continues to uncover and protect India’s hidden biodiversity.
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Conservation Actions

TWF has led impactful conservation efforts, including the establishment of India’s first protected area for a freshwater fish species at the Hiranyakeshi Biodiversity Heritage Site.
Working with the Government of Maharashtra, TWF has also helped secure protected areas for point endemic species and successfully rescued and relocated over 3,000 orchids from development sites, ensuring their preservation.
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Community Engagement

TWF’s “Jivanmitra” Initiative has provided medical aid to over 400 tribal members and forest guards in the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve and extended support to remote villages in Arunachal Pradesh during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, TWF conducts capacity-building workshops, including taxonomy training for students and researchers, a one-month program for MSc students at Shivaji University, and specialized training for Goa Forest Department recruits on Western Ghats herpetofauna.

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