-ARIJIT BANERJEE
PRINCIPAL CHIEF CONSERVATOR OF FORESTS AND HEAD OF FOREST FORCE (PCCF & HoFF)
In earlier times, hunters were regarded as great sportspersons—requiring strength, discipline, and a deep understanding of the forest and its inhabitants. Col. Kesri Singh’s prowess as a hunter laid the foundation for his journey as a conservationist. This was stated by the PPCCF & Head of Forest Force, Arijit Banerjee. He was delivering the Presidential Address at the launch of the book ‘Col Kesri Singh Kanota The “Tiger”’ at the Narain Niwas in Jaipur. The book has been written by Col Kesri Ji’s son, Thakur Raghunath Singh Kanota. The foreword for the book has been written by Jodhpur Maharaja Gaj Singh.
Banerjee also highlighted the value of books and film cameras in contrast to the fleeting nature of mobile phones and digital technology. “The patience and presence required for reading or using a film camera mirrors the very qualities conservation demands,” he added.
In his address, well-known environmentalist and wildlife expert, Harsh Vardhan said that the book weaves together personal stories with a contemporary narrative on tiger conservation. The book is set in a contemporary scene with a commentary on today’s wildlife conservation. It also explores the ‘economics’ of the tiger—delving into both the tangible and intangible benefits of tiger reserves, and shedding light on the role of tourism in supporting conservation efforts.
He also reflected on Col. Kesri Singh Kanota’s rich legacy, sharing anecdotes from his childhood, his formative years at Mayo College, and his remarkable tenure as the Chief Conservator of Forests in Kashmir.
On the occasion, Thakur Raghunath Singh of Kanota fondly reminisced about his father, sharing heartfelt anecdotes that offered glimpses into his personality, values, and contributions.
Dushyant Naila described Kesri Singh as a pioneering figure in the field of wildlife conservation, noting that his legacy of vision, courage, and commitment continues to serve as a source of inspiration for many.
Hanuwant Singh Santha spoke warmly about his father’s association with Col. Kesri Singh Kanota, recalling how this bond introduced him to the world of tigers and wildlife from an early age. He fondly remembered Col. Kesri Singh’s iconic car emblazoned with a tiger, a symbol that became widely recognised and synonymous with his passion for wildlife.
Jagdeep Singh shared fond recollections of Col. Kesri Singh Kanota’s deep-rooted connection with their shared alma mater, Mayo College. He spoke of the institution’s rich legacy—founded in 1875 to educate India’s royal heirs—and how it shaped individuals like Col. Kesri Singh Ji, instilling in them values of courage, leadership, and intellect.
Earlier, in the welcome address, Bhanwar Jai Singh talked about how the book fills a long-standing gap for modern readers and animal lovers alike. He emphasised that the stories and insights within its pages bridge the past and present, offering timeless relevance.
As part of the book release event, several individuals were felicitated with awards and certificates in recognition of their outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation, forest management, and their support for preserving the legacy of Col Kesri Singh Kanota. The recipients included Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Vasundhara Raje; then Forest Minister, Gajendra Singh Khimsar; then OSD to the Chief Minister and presently Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HOFF), Arijit Banerjee; then DCF Jhalana, Sudershan Sharma; then ACF Jhalana, Jagdeesh Gupta; DFO Jaipur, Vijendra Pal Singh; and ACF Jhalana, Devendra Singh Rathore. Volunteers, Sumit Juneja, Dheerendra Godha, Dheeraj Kapoor, and Dinesh Durrani were also honoured, along with Photo Experts, Surendra Singh Chauhan and Dinesh Dabi. Journalist, Mahesh Sharma (Bhaskar); Wildlife Expert, Dr. Mahesh Bagri; Veterinary Surgeon, Jhalana, Dr. Arvind Mathur; and Ecologist and Assistant Forester, Jhalana, Rajaram Meena were acknowledged for their contributions. Ex-Mayo Student, Jagdeep Singh; Organiser of the Book, Mohita Vardhan Tiwari; Conservationist, Sunil Mehta; Renowned Wildlife Filmmaker, Subbiah Nallamuthu; and Forest Supporter, Suraj Bai Meena were also recognised for their valuable roles in promoting and preserving the rich wildlife heritage of Rajasthan.