Vijayapura
Dhruv Patil, son of MB Patil has clarified that his appointment to the Karnataka State Wildlife Board is unrelated to his father’s politics. Dhruv Patil, who has worked in wildlife photography and conservation for over eleven years, stated that his appointment is based on his experience and contributions to the field.
Dhruv Patil spoke to reporters after observing the growth of 1.36 lakh saplings planted two years ago as part of the Koti Vriksha Andolan, a project led by him and the Society for Protection of Plants and Animals (SPPA) in collaboration with the Forest Department. He expressed satisfaction at seeing the saplings developing into trees.
Addressing claims that his new role was influenced by his father, Minister MB Patil, Dhruva Patil emphasized that his work and studies are separate from political affiliations. He is currently studying in the United States but spends significant time in Karnataka’s forest areas, including Kabini, Bandipur, and Dandeli.
Patil has studied human-wildlife conflict, photographed black leopards and tigers, and produced a documentary titled “Wild Vijayapura,” which was praised by Pujya Siddheshwar Swami. He noted that his lifelong interest in wildlife began when he was eight years old.
As a member of the Wildlife Board, Patil aims to contribute positively to wildlife conservation policy. He stressed that his appointment should be viewed in the context of his expertise and not his father’s political position.