Bengaluru, June 30, 2025 — The Karnataka Forest Department today witnessed a significant leadership transition as Subhash K. Malkhede, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, formally retired after decades of distinguished service.

Mr. Malkhede, a 1989-batch officer of the Indian Forest Service, leaves behind a legacy marked by strengthened wildlife protection measures, the rollout of the innovative HAWK wildlife crime tracking system, and extensive work to mitigate human–wildlife conflict across sensitive landscapes.

In an official notification issued today, the state government has appointed Prabhash Chandra Ray, IFS, a 1993-batch officer and until now the Principal Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment Department, as the new PCCF (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden of Karnataka. Mr. Ray has been widely regarded for his leadership in forest governance, conservation policy, and fire prevention initiatives. His experience is expected to bolster Karnataka’s position as a pioneer in innovative wildlife management practices.

Marking the occasion, Mr. Rajiv Ranjan & Mr. R.K. Srivastava, curators of Aranya.tv, personally called upon Mr. Malkhede to convey appreciation on behalf of the conservation community for his exemplary service. Mr. Srivastava also extended warm congratulations to Mr. Ray on assuming charge, expressing confidence that “his stewardship will further advance Karnataka’s commitment to protecting its rich natural heritage.”

The new PCCF (Wildlife) is expected to take up priority issues including landscape-level conservation planning, technological integration in monitoring systems, and capacity building of frontline staff.