Hemendra Singh Panwar, an Indian environmentalist and conservationist, died on May 29, 2026, at the age of 89.
He was known for his work in wildlife protection and conservation, and served as the first director of the Wildlife Institute of India as well as director of Project Tiger. Panwar built much of his career in the Indian Forest Service, including postings in Mandla and South Mandla, where he worked in the Kanha forest area.
The Government of India awarded him the Padma Bhushan in 2013 for his services to the environment and conservation.
Hemendra Singh Panwar, 89, Indian environmentalist.