Ramesh Kumar Pandey (IFS: UP–1996) serves as Additional Director General of Forests for Wildlife at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change headquarters in New Delhi. A senior Indian Forest Service officer with nearly 30 years of experience, he has made significant contributions in the fields of ecology and biodiversity.
Over his distinguished career, he has led initiatives in protected area management, wildlife conservation, forest landscape restoration, and community-based natural resource management. He has strengthened environmental enforcement systems and promoted inter-agency coordination to address wildlife crime and ecosystem degradation. His approach combines science-based conservation planning with participatory frameworks that align ecological protection with sustainable livelihoods.
In recognition of his leadership and contributions to environmental enforcement, he was conferred for the United Nations Asia Environmental Enforcement Award in 2019. His professional journey reflects deep commitment to safeguarding India's natural heritage through effective policy, field implementation, and institutional strengthening.