Kalpana Mukhiya

Kalpana Mukhiya is an environmental specialist working on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration in Sikkim. Collaborating with organizations such as the Global Tiger Forum and the State Forest Department, she focuses on restoring degraded lands through biological barriers and promoting organic, nature-based solutions.

Through her Youth for Biodiversity initiative as an NYCC Climate Champion from Sikkim, Kalpana is cultivating a new generation of environmental stewards by integrating climate education with locally grounded learning. She has engaged over 165 youth and 200 community members through awareness sessions, clean-up drives, and community-led action.

Working closely with stakeholders including Sikkim Alpine University and government departments, she bridges scientific research with grassroots implementation, fostering long-term community ownership of conservation efforts.

Currently, she is also contributing to her family’s hospitality business in South Sikkim, managing a restaurant and lodge while exploring pathways to integrate sustainable tourism practices into local livelihoods.