River Conservation
Safeguarding freshwater ecosystems and their unique inhabitants for a balanced natural world.
- Protecting the Beas river ecosystem
- Promoting the gharial as a flagship species
- Raising awareness about freshwater biodiversity
THE FOUNDER'S STORY
Vir Singh
Founder of the Virvanam Foundation, Environmentalist, and Wildlife Photographer.
VIR'S VISION
A future where Punjab’s rivers are clean and full of life, with many species returning and biodiversity growing again. We hope rewilding becomes normal, and that people take an informed, educated approach to caring for nature, with young people leading the way.
THE MISSION
To bring rivers and land in Punjab back to life by rewilding with native species and protecting river ecosystems. We aim to raise awareness, involve communities, and inspire young people to care for nature, so that healthy rivers, rich biodiversity, and balanced ecosystems can thrive again for future generations.
The Story of Vir Singh
The Early Years
Vir’s journey began at age four on his first visit to Kanha National Park. Since then, almost all his birthdays were spent at Chhatbir Zoo. In 2017, seeing baby gharials for the first time—thinking they looked almost like dinosaurs—sparked a lifelong fascination.
A Seed is Planted
Growing organic vegetables with his grandmother since age three deepened his connection to nature. As his passion for wildlife photography grew across India's national parks, he began to question the lack of biodiversity in Punjab—and dreamed of a clean, green ecosystem at home.
Taking Action
This desire turned into action as he began studying the critically endangered gharial. He launched a one-acre rewilding project on ancestral land, transforming monoculture farmland back into a thriving native ecosystem. The return of birds proved that restoration is possible.
The Mission Today
Today, Vir delivers talks in schools, organizes river walks, and works alongside WWF and the Forest Department. By combining science, storytelling, and community action, he aims to inspire a new generation to take ownership of their local biodiversity.
"His work focuses on rewilding landscapes, freshwater ecosystems, and raising awareness about overlooked species such as the gharial."
THE FOUNDATION'S PILLARS
Vir's Focus
Three core areas dedicated to the revitalization of Punjab's natural heritage and communities.
Rewilding & Habitat Restoration
Bringing degraded landscapes back to life through mindful restoration and scientific monitoring.
- Creating biodiversity-rich ecosystems on degraded land
- Planting native species
- Monitoring ecological recovery
Youth & Community Engagement
Empowering the next generation to take ownership of their local environment and biodiversity.
- School outreach programmes
- River walks and awareness campaigns
- Encouraging youth led conservation
Field Blogs & Media
Featured Talk
Punjab's Biodiversity: A Discussion on DD Punjabi
Latest Blogs
The Return of the Gharial
"A documentation of the recent increase in juvenile gharial sightings on the Sutlej banks."
Why Punjab's Wetlands Matter
"Exploring the critical ecological services provided by our local wetland complexes."
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We are always looking to partner with like-minded researchers, institutions, and advocates.