Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha, a young conservationist from Dzongu in North Sikkim, has been honoured with the prestigious Young Naturalist Award at the 13th Balipara Foundation Awards, held in Guwahati on Thursday evening. The award celebrates his exceptional dedication to butterfly conservation, research, and ecological awareness in the Eastern Himalayan region.
For more than ten years, Sonam has been actively engaged in documenting butterfly species, studying their habitats, and promoting conservation initiatives within local communities. His work has played a vital role in highlighting the rich and often overlooked biodiversity of Dzongu, a remote and ecologically sensitive area in Sikkim.
In 2016, he published “Butterflies of Dzongu,” an important field guide that showcases the extraordinary butterfly diversity of the region. The book remains a key reference for researchers, students, and nature enthusiasts. Alongside this, Sonam has authored multiple scientific papers that contribute significantly to the understanding of Sikkim’s Lepidoptera.
One of his most remarkable achievements is the discovery of the Chocolate-Bordered Flitter, a new butterfly species previously unknown to science. This unique discovery, made in Dzongu, brought him national attention and established him as one of the most promising young naturalists in the country.
After receiving the award, Sonam expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling the recognition a powerful source of motivation for his future work. He extended special thanks to Sikkim Chief Minister P.S. Golay for his constant encouragement and support. He also acknowledged the invaluable guidance of Forest Minister and area MLA Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, who has supported his conservation journey from the beginning.
The Balipara Foundation Awards are known for celebrating individuals, communities, and grassroots leaders who have made exceptional contributions to ecological conservation, sustainable development, and community-led environmental initiatives in the Eastern Himalayas. Sonam’s recognition highlights the importance of youth participation in conservation and reinforces the significance of protecting one of the world’s most biodiverse yet fragile ecosystems.
Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha’s achievement stands as an inspiring example of how dedication, curiosity, and passion for nature can lead to meaningful change.
