A team of Rangers led by Chief Forestry Officer from Sarpang Forest Division under the Department of Forests and Park Services are amongst the winners during the 3rd International Ranger Award 2023. The Annual International Ranger Award recognizes the remarkable work of rangers in protected areas around the world and the team from Bhutan was awarded in recognition of major success in protecting tigers, other threatened species and their habitats in and around the biological corridor no. 03, one of the 19 protected areas of Bhutan. Biological corridor number 03 which is managed by Sarpang Forests Division connects Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary with Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and Royal Manas National Park. The ministry congratulates the team for winning this prestigious award, which is very competitive.
Bhutan is regarded as a global champion of environmental conservation and our rangers are the pivotal players. At the risk of their lives and comfort, the Rangers work tirelessly to safeguard the diversity of life and preserve the beauty of our natural world. Their role is more vital now than ever before, as we recognize the importance of nature for our health, well-being, and the sustainability of our planet.
On the contrary, Bhutan being a fast-developing nation, lots of environmental challenges are inevitable, and rangers hold a critical position securing the balance between development and conservation. The human-wildlife conflict incidences and instances of numerous illegal resource harvestings further confronts the rangers. Therefore, our rangers are not only weather beaten and challenged by natural barriers, but also pressured by modern developments and societal needs. Therefore, this award which is a testament to their dedicated services, will further invigorate their performances.
The Sarpang team winning the prestigious award is an indication that the global community recognizes the roles that Bhutanese rangers play in securing the nature and its protected landscapes. The entire ranger fraternity of Bhutan is inspired. Back in 2021, a Bhutanese lady ranger Ms. Norbu Yangdon from Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary also received a “Special Mention” during the first International Ranger Award.
The ministry also expresses our unwavering commitment to supporting and elevating the work of rangers in Bhutan and beyond. We also thank the IUCN and the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas for hosting this prestigious award on annual basis.
Happy Rangers Day, 2023 and three cheers to all the Rangers of the country and the world!
Tashi Delek! 🫡
Minister
Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources
Royal Government of Bhutan
