BRAC Bank, in collaboration with Tarupallab, has presented the Dwijen Sharma Poribesh Padak 2025 to six distinguished individuals and institutions for their outstanding contributions to biodiversity conservation, environmental research, afforestation and ecological awareness in Bangladesh.
The awards were presented at a ceremony held on July 10, 2026 at the Bangla Academy in Dhaka.
Abdul Awal Mintoo, Honourable Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Bangladesh, attended as the Chief Guest, while Nazma Mobarek, Secretary of the Financial Institutions Division, Ministry of Finance, attended as the Special Guest.
Named after late Professor Dwijen Sharma—one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated botanists and naturalists—the award recognises individuals and organisations whose dedication to nature continues to inspire communities across the country.
Professor Dr Md Ashrafuzzaman received the Nature Award for conserving rare and endangered plant species, preserving nearly 1,800 plant species and advancing biodiversity research through more than 120 research publications.
Pran Boichitro Khamar received the Biodiversity Award for promoting natural farming, conserving indigenous seeds and agricultural heritage, and creating a successful model of sustainable agriculture and agri-tourism.
Md Badsa Mia received the Friend of Trees Award for planting more than 30,000 fruit, timber and medicinal trees over two decades and inspiring grassroots afforestation across villages in Rangpur.
Umma Kulsum Popi received the Social Influencer Award for using digital platforms to promote sustainable agriculture, rooftop gardening, safe food production and environmental awareness, reaching millions of people as Bangladesh’s first female agro-influencer.
Mosammat Sumaiya Mariam received the Young Naturalist Award for her innovative use of science and digital technology in biodiversity conservation, including her contribution to the landmark Tree Census 2025 project.
Professor Dr Kazi Ahsan Habib received the Environmental Research Award for his pioneering work in marine biodiversity conservation, coral reef research and the advancement of Bangladesh’s Blue Economy, including updating the country’s documented marine fish species from 475 to 740.
Addressing the programme, Abdul Awal Mintoo said, “Protecting nature is no longer a choice; it is a national responsibility. The awardees have shown how individual commitment can create lasting environmental impact and inspire society.”
Nazma Mobarek said, “Sustainable development requires strong collaboration between government, financial institutions and citizens. These awardees demonstrate how local initiatives can contribute to national progress.”
Tareq Refat Ullah Khan, Managing Director and CEO of BRAC Bank, said, “We believe responsible banking means creating value for people, society and the planet. By honouring these changemakers, we reaffirm our commitment to a greener, more sustainable Bangladesh.”
Mokarram Hossain, General Secretary of Tarupallab, said, “The Dwijen Sharma Poribesh Padak is not only a recognition of achievement; it is a platform to encourage more people to take responsibility for protecting Bangladesh’s natural heritage.”
Introduced in 2025, the BRAC Bank–Tarupallab Dwijen Sharma Poribesh Padak honours individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to environmental stewardship. Last year, the two organisations recognised four recipients for their exceptional work in protecting nature.