From Lab to Legacy: ZSI’s EXTRAORDI-नारी Leading with Wisdom
Kolkata, August 6, 2025: The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) hosted a landmark event on August 6, 2025, titled “EXTRAORDI-नारी: Wings of Wishdom,” to honor the contributions of women in science and celebrate the collaborative spirit driving national progress. The event served as a tribute to the resilience, strength, and achievements of women scientists, scholars, and changemakers, while also recognizing the crucial support from their male colleagues and mentors. The event reflects ZSI’s commitment to equity, empowerment, and excellence, recognizing the profound contributions of women scientists, scholars, and changemakers, while acknowledging the unwavering support from their male counterparts like mentors, allies, and colleagues who have journeyed beside them in solidarity.
The program began with an invocation, followed by a screening of the short film, “Wings, Fins & HER Footsteps,” which highlighted the journeys of women in biodiversity and conservation science within ZSI. Dr. C. Raghunathan, Additional Director, ZSI, delivered a welcome address that detailed the institution’s history and the evolving role of women within it. A significant moment was the inauguration of the ‘EXTRAORDI-नारी‘ logo by Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director of ZSI and the first woman to hold this position in the organization’s 105-year history. Her leadership was recognized as a symbol of change, inclusivity, and excellence.
The event featured the presentation of the WIZ Award-2025 (Women in Zoology) to four outstanding female students: Ms. Preeti Debnath, Ms. Sonali Gazi, Ms. Sayani Roy, and Ms. Loveli Mukherjee. These students were chosen for their exceptional academic performance and commitment to zoological sciences, reflecting ZSI’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of women scientists.
Distinguished guest speakers, including Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR and Director General of CSIR; Prof. Geetanjali Dash, Vice-Chancellor, Berhampur University, Odisha; and Dr. Sangeeta Dubey, IFS, Ex-PCCF & CEO, CAMPA, Govt. of West Bengal, delivered powerful speeches on the changing landscape for women in science, policy, and leadership.
Two new publications, “Creature Chronicles – Wild Hearts, Wise Minds” and the “ZSI Directory – 2025,” were also officially launched, showcasing the intellectual and scientific advancements of the institution.
A key part of the celebration was a panel discussion titled “Ordinary to Extraordinary – The Journey,” moderated by Prof. Ayaz A. Shafi. The panel featured prominent individuals from diverse fields, including Dr. Nandita Chatterjee (IAS, Retd.), Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, Dr. Ruchi Badola, Dr. Archana Sinha, Ms. Bonya Ray, and Ms. Ajanta Dey. Their personal stories underscored the shared experiences of overcoming obstacles and inspiring others.
The ceremony also honored several women for their significant contributions, including retired ZSI scientist Dr. Rina Chakraborty, educationist Ms. Gargi Banerjee, and yoga practitioner Ms. Soumee Mitra.
In her remarks, Dr. Dhriti Banerjee emphasized the importance of gender equality, shared development, and the vital role of male allies within ZSI in promoting women’s advancement. She highlighted that while the celebration centered on womanhood, it also honored the collaboration and support of men who are integral to this journey of change.
The event concluded with a cultural program celebrating India’s diversity, followed by a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Anjum N. Rizvi, Joint Director of ZSI, and the National Anthem.
