Manika N

I am a conservation ecologist focused on landscape-level conservation and Management. My work addresses the nexus linking biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration, agroforestry, wetland ecology, community wellbeing, and urban ecology. I am an active member of IUCN CEM and SSC, SER and Ecological Restoration Alliance.

Conservation ecologist with 14 years of experience leading biodiversity and climate initiatives across diverse Indian landscapes, with a strong focus on landscape restoration and conservation, invasive species management, urban resilience, green blue infrastructure, nature-based solutions with gender-responsive approach. I specialize in bridging ecological research with program design and stakeholder engagement, having managed large-scale projects funded by bilateral and multilateral organizations like World Bank, GIZ, UNDP, USAID, government, and philanthropic foundations. Skilled in partnership development, impact communications, and navigating complex multi-stakeholder environments, I bring a systems-thinking approach to scaling biodiversity conservation and equitable climate action.

My practice sits at the intersection of research, on ground implementation and strategic policy.

I hold a PhD in Botany (Natural Resource Management) from the University of Lucknow, which I completed between 2010-2015. My doctoral research was conducted at CSIR-CIMAP and focused on conservation and sustainable harvesting of plant species. I also earned an M.Sc. in Medicinal Plants and Herbal Resource Management from Jiwaji University, Gwalior (2006-2008), which provided my foundational expertise in plant conservation and sustainable resource management.

To complement my scientific background with business and development perspectives, I completed an MBA in Rural Management from Singhania University, Jhunjhunu. This combination of deep ecological expertise and rural development management equips me to navigate the complex intersection of conservation science, community needs, and sustainable development.