Panaji (Goa) Nirmal Kulkarni, known for his wildlife photography and some serious discoveries of snakes, is being nominated for the prestigious Padma Shri award 2018.

“It is indeed a proud movement. Being nominated is a great feeling,” Nirmal reacted.

Nirmal, 40-year old herpetologist, is nominated in category called ‘Others’ for his contribution towards sustainable tourism and conservation.

‘The Goan Jungle Book’, authored by him educates about Goa’s lesser known wildlife

Padma award for the year 2018 will be announced on the eve of the Republic Day next year.

Nirmal has headed and contributed to several research projects like National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, Sahyadri Ecologically Sensitive Area, Indian Herpetological Society, Animal Wildlife Census, etc.

Some of the rare species of caecilian, sub species of pit viper are discovered by him.