​Silpa Rajeevan, a PhD scholar from the Centre for the Study of Social Inclusion (CSSI), School of Social Sciences at the University of Hyderabad (UoH), successfully presented her research at a prestigious international conference held in Parma, Italy.

​Ms. Rajeevan virtually presented her research paper, titled “Dilemmas of Wildlife Conservation in Western Ghats: Understanding through the Erosion of Indigenous Heritage and Changing Human-Animal Dynamics in Wayanad, Kerala”.

​The presentation was part of the three-day international conference, “Intangible Heritage Horizons and Echoes: Safeguarding the Invisible,” which took place from May 29 to May 31, 2026. The high-profile event was jointly organized by the Heritage International Institute, Parma University, and Sciences Po.

​Ms. Rajeevan’s paper offered a critical examination of the ongoing ecological and social complexities in the Western Ghats, focusing specifically on the Wayanad region of Kerala. Her research highlights how modern wildlife conservation strategies often inadvertently lead to the erosion of indigenous heritage. By analyzing the shifting dynamics between local human populations and wildlife, her work sheds light on the urgent need for inclusive conservation models that safeguard both natural biodiversity and ancient tribal legacies.

​Following her successful presentation, Ms. Rajeevan extended her deep appreciation to the academic community at UoH for their unwavering guidance:

  • ​Prof. J. Rani Ratna Prabha: She expressed her sincere gratitude to her supervisor for her constant encouragement, invaluable insights, and steady support throughout the research process.
  • ​Centre Leadership: She also thanked Prof. Sreepati Ramudu, Head of the Centre for the Study of Social Inclusion, and faculty member Prof. Ajailu Niumai for fostering a supportive and enriching academic environment.

This achievement underscores the University of Hyderabad’s commitment to impactful social science research that addresses critical global and local issues, bridging the gap between ecological conservation and social justice.