Dr Dipon Sharmah, a botanist from Gangmouthan village in Behali, Biswanath district, Assam, has been appointed as a Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC) for the 2026–2029 term. 

Key Facts About the Appointment

• Professional position: Dr Sharmah is currently an Assistant Professor (UPSC nominee) and Head of the Postgraduate Department of Botany at Jawaharlal Nehru Rajkeeya Mahavidyalaya in Sri Vijaya Puram, formerly known as Port Blair, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Specialist Group: He will work with the Mushroom, Bracket and Puffball Specialist Group, which focuses on fungi.
• Term: His appointment covers the 2026–2029 period.
• Research contribution: He will contribute to the assessment of fungi across South and Southeast Asia for the IUCN Red List.

Exam Hook – Key Takeaway

Dr Dipon Sharmah from Assam has been appointed to the IUCN Species Survival Commission (2026–2029), joining its Mushroom, Bracket and Puffball Specialist Group to contribute to fungal conservation assessments.