Could you introduce yourself and tell us more about your background and your career trajectory in the field of ecological restoration?

I am an ecologist and internationally recognized Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) who has built a career around my passion for the conservation, management, and restoration of ecosystems. After completing a doctorate in zoology, I began working as an Assistant Professor at Navrachana University, Vadodara, Gujarat.

I have more than 15 years of research experience across diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, deserts, grasslands, and rivers. Over the past 6–7 years, I have completed various restoration projects such as mangrove and wetland restoration. Currently, I work with Indigenous communities, particularly Indian farmers, to restore soil health through natural, organic, and chemical-free farming practices.

One of my lead projects with Mrs. Shruti D. Shah (Botanist, Ecologist) focuses on soil restoration using native plant species, which helps restore soil biota and groundwater. It also involves stakeholders including Indigenous people, students, and local communities, as part of sustainable development efforts.

Soil restoration: Organic farm (farmer: Mr. Umesh Giri, Gujarat) Students of Navrachna University learn about the importance of chemical-free farming.

What inspired you to join SER, and what do you value most about your membership?

The most important thing I gain from SER is the opportunity to present my work at the international level. It allows me to connect with different people who provide valuable guidance, get involved in my projects, and offer learning opportunities that are especially meaningful for those working in developing countries.

What about ecological restoration excites you the most?

What excites me most is being able to contribute to restoring nature, which is essential for the survival of the human population. I also greatly value the opportunity to meet Indigenous communities and involve them in restoring soil through traditional methods. Additionally, I conduct training sessions, workshops, and internship programs for a range of stakeholders including students, businesspeople, industrialists, scientists, restoration practitioners, and Indigenous communities.

Could you highlight a particular project or initiative you've been involved in that you're especially proud of or passionate about?

There are two projects I would like to highlight:

Wetland restoration — this project involves working closely with Indigenous and local communities.

Soil restoration — this project has been particularly successful in engaging local people living in suburban areas by emphasizing the importance of native tree species. We have planted more than 100 native plant species, including herbs, shrubs, creepers, and trees (such as Ficus benghalensis, Azadirachta indica, Vetiver species, etc.) along with 25 different seed varieties (Saraca asoca, Mangifera indica, etc.). This project was made possible with the support of Mrs. Shruti Shah (SER member) and other supportive people. 

A before photo taken 19 March 2021 and after photo taken 14 December 2021 of a wetland feature. Thankful to the villa owner, Mr. Shah.

In your view, what are the most pressing ecological restoration challenges or opportunities that the field is currently facing, and how do you see SER playing a role in  addressing them?

One of the biggest challenges has been convincing local village governments, securing budgets, and helping stakeholders understand the importance of eco-friendly materials. To address this, I often use examples from SER projects in other countries, which has helped me overcome some of these challenges.

Obtaining permissions and funding from local governments remains one of the most difficult aspects. SER plays a crucial role by providing solutions for eco-friendly materials and sharing restoration strategies that I can apply to my projects. There is also a growing need for more advanced tools and techniques to help reduce manual labor.

Can you share some key lessons or insights you've gained from your work that you believe are important for the broader restoration community?

The importance of awareness and training.

Connecting students (undergraduate, postgraduate, researchers), Indigenous people, and local communities.

For soil restoration, it’s essential to understand the types of soil, seasonal patterns, available and required water, manpower, tools and techniques, types of crops, and the role of traditional crops. 

Are there specific ecological restoration principles or practices that you find particularly fascinating or effective, and how have you applied them in your work or projects?

I am particularly interested in eco-friendly materials, as well as resources from SER such as chapters, sections, journals, CERP applications, and project databases. One suggestion I’d offer is that we cannot apply theoretical international principles universally; each country requires its own adapted approach.

Jagruti and Shruti Shah organized a visit to the Ramsar site (Nalsarovar, Gujarat) for the local community (including engineers &  students).

What unique ecological restoration challenges and opportunities are associated with your region?

A main challenge is raising awareness about the concept of restoration, securing funding, and convincing local governments to support restoration work. The opportunities include, meeting international colleagues through conferences, gaining new knowledge, and connecting with diverse people. I’ve also received recognition at the Asian level as an invited speaker at international conferences and local industry events, as well as national recognition through university accreditations.

Native plants distribution to local community members.

Can you share your vision for the future of ecological restoration?

My vision is to encourage more students and the younger generation to conserve ecosystems. However, when conservation efforts fail, restoration plays a crucial role, provided it is guided by proper strategies, applications, and monitoring using new tools and techniques (such as drones, seed banks, and platforms for Indigenous communities). I believe that by living more like traditional and Indigenous communities, with minimal use of technology, human life can become truly sustainable.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?

I believe in spirituality and often find humor even in critical situations. I am very closely connected to my friends Dr. Chandni Patel (SER member) and Dr. Sonal Deshkar and family. Also, I love cheetah and dream of one day taking a photo with one!

Last but not least, I would like to thank my Ph.D. Guide Dr. Geeta Padate, the Guruji (Dr. A.V. Ramachandran) and all my teachers and professors.

CERP Specific Questions

What inspired you to pursue certification, and how has it impacted your career and/or work in the field of ecological restoration?

As someone from a developing country, I’ve pursued various courses aligned with the national education policy, and the knowledge I’ve gained has had a significant impact on my work.

I actively read both international and national policies. This certification has given me the opportunity to be part of the Goals and Governing Council of SER and CERP. It has also allowed me to connect and interact with different project coordinators on restoration projects. I’ve even delivered introductory lectures to undergraduate students.

In your view, what are the advantages of becoming a CERP, both for individuals and the ecological restoration profession as a whole?

Becoming a CERP has given me insight into many restoration projects beyond my own country, providing opportunities for knowledge exchange with other experts.

Jagruti presenting her research at SER2023 in Darwin Australia.

What advice do you have for restoration professionals considering certification?

Keep your knowledge updated regarding national and international strategies and involve more Indigenous and local communities. Attend meetings and conferences, and expand your expertise and learning through SER. Awareness and restoration work should go hand in hand.

Get more involved in restoration projects, starting at the regional level and then advance to the national and international levels.

What is your vision for the continued growth and recognition of CERP certification in the field?

My vision is to encourage more students and the younger generation to conserve ecosystems. However, when conservation fails, restoration becomes essential, using proper strategies, applications, and monitoring supported by new tools and techniques (such as drones, seed banks, and platforms for Indigenous communities). I believe that living like traditional and Indigenous peoples, with minimal reliance on technology, is the path to true sustainability.

A wetland awareness program and tour with the young generation.