Kolkata, August 6, 2025

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) hosted a landmark event titled ‘EXTRAORDI–नारी: Wings of Wisdom’, a celebration of the vital contributions of women in science and academia. The event reflected ZSI’s commitment to inclusivity, gender equality and scientific excellence, while honouring the strength, achievements, and resilience of women professionals across generations.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the inaugural WIZ Award 2025 (Women in Zoology) to four exceptional students — Ms. Preeti Debnath, Ms. Sonali Gazi, Ms. Sayani Roy, and Ms. Loveli Mukherjee — for their academic excellence and promise in the field of zoological sciences. These awards sought to nurture the next generation of women scientists.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Raghunathan, Additional Director, ZSI, offered a historical perspective on the celebration of women. He spoke on the ancient Indian tradition of honouring women, referencing Rishikas (female sages), and observing that epic downfalls like those of Ravana and the Kauravas stemmed from their disrespect toward women. He highlighted the pioneering achievements of women like Savitribai Phule and Kadambini Ganguly in the field of education. 
In a powerful statement, Dr. Geetanjali Dash, Vice-Chancellor, Berhampur University, observed, “History has a skewed perception of the daughters of the land,” calling for greater recognition of unsung women pioneers like Kamala Sohonie, India’s first female PhD in science.
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR, remarked that “Kitchens are the cradles of scientific and administrative creativity”, underlining the often-overlooked innovation and ingenuity of women in domestic spaces. She highlighted the need to recognize the creative potential of girl children and saluted men who actively support the empowerment of women. Statistics shared during the event revealed that only 55 Vice Chancellors in India today are women, emphasizing the importance of continued efforts in breaking the glass ceiling in academic and research leadership. Interestingly, all the speakers congratulated Dr Dhriti Banerjee for being the first female Director of ZSI and lauded her invaluable contributions to the institution.
A panel discussion titled ‘Ordinary to Extraordinary: The Journey’, moderated by Prof. Ayaz A. Shafi, featured distinguished speakers from across disciplines — Dr. Nandini Chatterjee, IAS, Dr. Ruchi Badola, Dr. Archana Sinha, Ms. Bonya Ray, and Ms. Ajanta Dey. Their journeys highlighted the shared struggles and triumphs of women who defied odds to shape the scientific landscape of India.
The event also honoured retired ZSI scientist Ms. Rina Chakraborty, educationist Ms. Gargi Banerjee, and yoga practitioner Ms Soumee Mitra. Two new publications — ‘Creature Chronicles – Wild Hearts, Wise Minds’ and the ‘ZSI Directory – 2025’ — were unveiled. The celebration concluded with a cultural programme and a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Anjum N. Rizvi, Joint Director, ZSI, followed by the National Anthem.

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