Wildlife Veterinarian • Researcher • Conservationist
About Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan
More than 35 years of veterinary service dedicated to wildlife health, scientific conservation, rehabilitation, education, and public service.
A Life of Courage, Compassion and Commitment to Wildlife
Early Life
- From Poverty to Purpose: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Krishnamoorthy
- Born on 12 June 1965 into a financially struggling family in Idappadi village, Salem District, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan’s life is a remarkable story of resilience, determination, and transformation. His father was an astrologer, and despite severe financial hardships, young Krishnamoorthy was determined to pursue his education. While studying at Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Idappadi, he worked at various jobs, including selling lottery tickets, to support his family and continue his studies. In 1984, a life-changing moment arrived when he won the first prize of ₹50,000 in a Tamil Nadu Government lottery, opening the door to his dream of becoming a veterinarian. He joined Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, in 1984 and graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree in 1989, overcoming numerous financial and personal challenges through perseverance and hard work.
- His transformation from a financially disadvantaged village boy into a dedicated veterinary professional laid the foundation for a lifelong mission to save animal lives and protect wildlife. After joining the Tamil Nadu Government veterinary service in 1990, he devoted his career to animal welfare, elephant rescue, snake surgery, wildlife research, and conservation. His journey demonstrates that humble beginnings need not determine one's destiny and that courage, determination, and compassion can transform personal struggles into a lifetime of meaningful service to society and nature.
Profile of Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan
- Early Life and Educational Qualifications Dr. K. Krishnamoorthy Asokan was born on 12 June 1965 in Idappadi Village, Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India. He completed his schooling up to the 12th Standard at Government Boys Higher Secondary School. During the academic year 1982–1983, he secured the highest marks in the Dairy Science Department. In 1984, he joined the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V.Sc.) degree programme at Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, one of India's renowned veterinary educational institutions. He successfully completed the course in 1989, laying the academic foundation for his subsequent career in veterinary medicine, wildlife treatment, animal rescue, and conservation
- He joined the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department as a Veterinary Assistant Surgeon on 6 April 1990 and retired as Assistant Director on 30 June 2025, completing an exemplary career in public service. During his professional journey, he served as a Wildlife Veterinarian at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, Theppakadu Elephant Camp, and Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, and as Zoo Director of V.O.C. Mini Zoological Park, Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation.
- His diverse conservation experience includes elephant rescue and healthcare, wildlife surgery, snake medicine and surgery, wildlife pathology, conservation breeding, rehabilitation, and field research. During his service in Nagapattinam District, he was also involved in sea turtle conservation and conducted post-mortem examinations of stranded whales, sea turtles, and dolphins, contributing to marine wildlife health and conservation awareness.
- Widely recognized through social media as the “Elephant Doctor” and “Snake Doctor,” Dr. Asokan is known for his practical expertise in elephant medicine, wildlife rescue, veterinary surgery, snake care, wildlife pathology, conservation research, and public education. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to combining science, compassion, field experience, and community participation for the protection of wildlife and biodiversity.
- Dr. Asokan is associated with professional and conservation organizations including the Association of Indian Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians, Society of Immunology and Immunopathology, International Foundation for Environment and Ecology, and Rotary Club of Coimbatore Siruvani.
Professional Profile
A career devoted to India’s wildlife
Professional Career
- Dr. Krish Asokan graduated with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V.Sc.) from Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, and joined the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department as a Veterinary Assistant Surgeon in 1990. He completed 35 years of distinguished government service and retired as Assistant Director on 30 June 2025. During his career, he served as a Wildlife Veterinarian at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, Zoo Director of V.O.C. Mini Zoological Park, Coimbatore, and Veterinary Officer involved in marine wildlife and Olive Ridley sea turtle conservation. His professional expertise spans wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, zoo medicine, veterinary surgery, pathology, conservation research, epidemiology, and environmental education.
State Level Committee Member
- Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan served in the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department in various capacities, including as a Field Veterinarian and Farm Manager at Government District Livestock Farms. Recognising his extensive professional experience and diverse expertise, the Government deputed him to various specialised assignments to support departmental objectives and public welfare. His responsibilities included veterinary healthcare, livestock farm management, rural development, tsunami rehabilitation programmes, zoo management, and wildlife conservation. Through these varied roles, he contributed significantly to animal welfare, livestock development, environmental protection, and public service across Tamil Nadu.
- Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan served as a Member of the Bird Flu Control and Containment Committee in West Bengal from 24 January to 7 February 2008, contributing to avian influenza outbreak control through disease surveillance, containment operations, and public health protection.
- Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan served as a Committee Member for the Integrated Piggery Development Scheme under the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department from 15 November 1995, contributing to the planning and implementation of scientific pig farming and livestock development initiatives.
- From 8–14 March 1995, Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan participated in the 2nd National Livestock & Poultry Show in New Delhi as the Farm Manager of the District Livestock Farm, Hosur. Under his leadership, the farm won the Best Milch Animal Award and Best Draught Animal Award, and he received Appreciation Certificates from the Animal Husbandry Commissioner, Government of India.
Training in Wildlife Management
- Dr. Krish Asokan has consistently enhanced his professional expertise through specialized training, national and international conferences, workshops, scientific presentations, and guest lectures in wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, and biodiversity management.
Professional Training
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1998 – Training in Handling of Tranquillizer Gun, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Kerala.
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2006 – Management of Natural Disasters, Anna Institute of Management, Chennai.
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2010 – Basic Fire Fighting & Rescue, Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services Department, Nagapattinam.
- 2011 – Training on Wildlife Management, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Chennai.
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2010 – Basic Fire Fighting & Rescue, Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services Department, Nagapattinam.
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2006 – Management of Natural Disasters, Anna Institute of Management, Chennai.
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1998 – Training in Handling of Tranquillizer Gun, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Kerala.
International Conferences & Scientific Awards
- 03 & 05- Feb-2010 – Participated in the International Conference on Wildlife Conservation, Health and Disease Management – A Post Millennium Approach, and received the Wildlife Toxicology Browns Medal.
- 22 &23-Feb-2019 – Presented "Threats for Snakes – An Overview" at the Role of Veterinary Science in Farmers' Livelihood International Conference, organized by Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS), Chennai, and received the Lead Speaker Certificate.
- 03 & 04- 2020 – Received the Bio millennium Scientist Award at the International Conference on Translational Biomedicine Research for Metabolic Diseases, Vivekanandha College of Arts and Sciences for Women, Namakkal.
- 22 &24-Aug-2022 – Received the Biodiversity Conservation Award at the 8th International Conference on Environment and Ecology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore.
- 28 & 29-June-2024 – Received the Best Research Article Award at the Livestock Health & Farmers' Wealth International Conference, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal, for his research on the Indian Rock Python.
- 06 & 07-Mar-2025 – Received the Biodiversity Conservation Award at the National Symposium on the Western Ghats: Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore.
National Conference Award for Wildlife Toxicology Research (1999)
During his tenure as a Wildlife Veterinarian at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park (1996–2000), Dr. Krish Asokan investigated the causes of mortality in wild animals through systematic necropsy examinations. His investigations identified pesticide poisoning as an important cause of wildlife mortality, highlighting the impact of agricultural chemicals on biodiversity and ecosystem health.
The findings were presented as a poster presentation at a National Programme on Wildlife Health and Investigation, held from 03–05 Feb 2010. In recognition of the scientific merit of this work, Dr. Krish Asokan received the Brown Medal and a Certificate of Merit, presented by Shri D. Rajasekar, IFS, who served with the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). The award recognized his contribution to wildlife disease investigation and wildlife toxicology.
Guest Lectures & Workshops
- 13-11-2017-Delivered a Guest Lecture on Zoo/Wild Animal Breeding, Management,Nutrition and Health Care at the Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal
- 24 & 25-Jan-2019 – Delivered a Guest Lecture on The National Level Workshop on Conservation Management Strategies for Native Cattle and Vultures, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, and received a Certificate of Appreciation.
- 11-05-2022 – Delivered a Guest Lecture on Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine: Emergency and Critical Care Management at the Veterinary College and Research Institute, Orathanadu.
- 2023-Delivered a Resource Person on Managing Natural Resources Concepts Strategies at Gibichettipalayam Arts and Science College, Gobichetipalayam, Erode District.
- 10-04-2022 – Delivered a Guest Lecture at the Tamil Nadu Snake Rescuers Meet, organized in association with the University of Reading, United Kingdom, sharing his expertise with more than 200 snake rescue volunteers.
- 08-10-2024 -Delivered a Guest Lecture on Wildlife Week Celebration- Wild Animals Rescue & Rehabilitation at the Veterinary College and Research Institute, Udumalpet
- 06-03-2026,- Delivered a Resource Person on at the The Impact of Climate Change on Animal Behaviour at the Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore
Lead Speaker Recognition and -Best Paper Award Scientific Contributions to Snake Conservation and Surgery
- In February 2019, Dr. Krish Asokan delivered the invited presentation “Threats for Snakes – An Overview” at the International Conference on the Role of Veterinary Science in Farmers’ Livelihood, organized by Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS), Chennai, on 22–23 February 2019. His presentation highlighted the major threats faced by snakes and emphasized the importance of scientific rescue, veterinary care, habitat protection and conservation. In recognition of his contribution to wildlife conservation and reptile medicine, he received a Lead Speaker Certificate.
- On 28–29 June 2024, Dr. Krish Asokan participated in the National Conference on Livestock Health and Farmers’ Wealth 2024, organized by TANUVAS, Namakkal. He presented a scientific paper on the advanced surgical management of snakes under inhalation (gas) anaesthesia, describing innovative veterinary techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of injured and diseased snakes. The presentation highlighted the use of modern anaesthetic protocols to improve surgical safety and postoperative recovery in both venomous and non-venomous snakes, contributing to the advancement of reptile surgery and wildlife veterinary medicine
- . In recognition of the scientific value and practical importance of his research presentation, Dr. Krish Asokan was selected for the Best Paper Award at the 2024 National Conference. These recognitions reflect his continuing contribution to wildlife veterinary science, particularly in the fields of snake surgery, reptile medicine, wildlife conservation and innovative veterinary techniques.
Life Philosophy
- Dr. Krish Asokan believes that every living creature has the right to live and that protecting wildlife is both a professional duty and a moral responsibility. Guided by compassion, scientific knowledge and integrity, he has dedicated his career to conserving biodiversity through wildlife veterinary care, research, education and public awareness.
Current 2026 Professional Updates
- 2026: Continuing as a resource person and trainer for the Tamil Nadu Government's Naan Mudhalvan Employability Skills Programme for College final year Students. 2026: Ongoing public awareness programmes on wildlife conservation, climate change, environmental pollution, and snake conservation. 2026: Preparation and publication of his research achievements and conservation initiatives through his official website.
2026-District Level Master Trainer for Disaster Management Planning
- Certificate – Training of Trainers (ToT), Disaster Management Planning
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- Dr. K. Asokan successfully completed the Training of Trainers (ToT) for Preparation of Disaster Management Plan Integrated into GPDP, under the Panchayat Development Plan Trainings, conducted by SIRD, Chennai, Tamil Nadu through the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India.
- Training Period: 02–03 September 2026.
- Role: District Level Master Trainer (DLMT) / Resource Person
District Level Master Trainer (DLMT) / Resource Person – Mahila Sabha, Bala Sabha & Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs)
- 25–26 September 2026.-District Level Master Trainer (DLMT) / Resource Person – Mahila Sabha & Bala Sabha: Successfully completed the Training of Trainers (ToT) on Mahila Sabha and Bala Sabha, under the thematic training on Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs) / Sector Enablers, conducted by SIRD Tamil Nadu from 25–26 September 2026, sponsored by the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA).
- Mahila Sabha and Bala Sabha are dedicated grassroots assemblies held prior to main Gram Sabhas to ensure women and children actively participate in local village governance and development planning
- Mahila Sabha focuses on enabling women to participate in local governance and raise issues such as health, nutrition, safety, livelihoods, sanitation, water and other development needs.
- Bala Sabha provides a platform for children to participate in local development discussions, including education, child safety, sanitation, drinking water, playgrounds and other child-related concerns.
Why Should We Save Wild Elephants Birds, Snakes ? ?Rescue, treatment, and rehabilitation of injured and Wild Animals.
- Wild elephants, birds, and snakes play essential roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Elephants regenerate forests through seed dispersal, birds support pollination and seed dispersal, and snakes control rodents and maintain ecological balance. One wild elephant can help regenerate up to 36,000 trees per year through seed dispersal in its dung, under suitable environmental conditions. Climate change, habitat loss, deforestation, and human–wildlife conflict threaten these species. Protecting elephants, birds, snakes, and other wildlife is essential for biodiversity, healthy forests, ecological balance, and the future of our planet.
Dedicated to Saving Wildlife and Protecting Biodiversity
- Over 15 years of dedicated wildlife service, Dr. Krish Asokan has rescued and treated more than 50 wild elephants and orphaned elephant calves, along with Indian Gaurs, leopards, hyenas, chameleons, hedgehogs, wild cats, monkeys, and other wild animals. He has also rescued and treated more than 3,000 snakes and 3,000 birds, including injured and critically affected animals. He has conducted over 500 post-mortem examinations of elephants and other wild animals, helping identify causes of mortality and support better wildlife management practices. His work includes wildlife rescue, veterinary treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and release back into natural habitats. He has also trained wildlife rescuers, veterinarians, forest staff, and conservation volunteers, and conducted environmental education and public awareness programmes to promote human–wildlife coexistence, biodiversity conservation, and climate-resilient wildlife protection.
First-of-Its-Kind & Landmark Wildlife Achievements
- 50 Wild Elephants Saved – Successfully rescued elephants affected by electric shocks, gunshot injuries, severe illnesses, and other life-threatening conditions. Orphan Elephant Calf Rehabilitation
- – Successfully rescued and reared orphaned elephant calves, including Bommi, featured in the Academy Award-winning documentary The Elephant Whisperers. India’s First Radio Telemetry Research on Indian Rock Pythons
- – Led a pioneering research project generating valuable data on python movement, behaviour, ecology, and conservation. Landmark Hyena Rescue Operations – Successfully handled rare and challenging hyena rescue and treatment cases.
- First-of-Its-Kind Facial Reconstructive Surgery in a Wild Monkey – Performed advanced facial surgery following severe injury.
- Pioneer in Snake Surgery & Reptile Medicine – Performed advanced surgeries for cancer, tumours, eye diseases, fractures, and multiple severe abscesses in snakes.
- Advanced Gas Anaesthesia in Snake Surgery – Among the pioneers in applying gas anaesthesia for snake surgery, contributing to the advancement of reptile veterinary medicine in India.
Protecting Wildlife Through Veterinary Excellence, Research & Conservation
- Over 15 years of dedicated service in zoo and wildlife conservation, Dr. Krishnamoorthy Asokan has made significant contributions to wildlife veterinary medicine in Tamil Nadu through the rescue, treatment, rehabilitation, research, and conservation of wild animals. He has conducted more than 500 post-mortem examinations of wild elephants, Indian Gaurs, leopards, tigers, and other wildlife, generating valuable scientific evidence on diseases, traumatic injuries, poisoning, electrocution, plastic ingestion, infectious diseases, and human–wildlife conflict.
- He has successfully rescued and managed more than 50 wild elephants, including orphaned elephant calves, captured and translocated elephants, and injured or diseased elephants treated and released back into their natural habitats. His timely emergency veterinary interventions have helped save the lives of numerous wild elephants.
- His expertise extends to a wide range of wildlife, including hyenas, Indian Rock Pythons, snakes, chameleons, crocodiles, birds, marine wildlife, and other wild animals. He also pioneered India's first radio-telemetry research project on free-ranging Indian Rock Pythons, using advanced veterinary techniques for transmitter implantation and retrieval to study movement ecology, habitat use, behaviour, and conservation biology.
- Through wildlife rescue, advanced veterinary treatment, scientific research, training, and conservation awareness, his work has contributed significantly to wildlife healthcare, biodiversity conservation, scientific knowledge, and human–wildlife coexistence in India.
Webinars, Online Training & Professional Development
- Dr. Krish Asokan has actively participated in more than 300 national and international webinars on Wild Animal Management, Wildlife Conservation, Disaster Management, Climate Change, Livestock Management, Zoo Management, One Health, Biodiversity Conservation, and Veterinary Sciences. Through his continuous commitment to professional learning and knowledge enhancement, he has earned over 200 online webinar participation certificates from reputed universities, government organizations, veterinary institutions, and wildlife conservation agencies. In recognition of his outstanding participation and contributions to online professional development programmes, he has also received three online award certificates for excellence in learning and academic engagement. These achievements reflect his lifelong dedication to updating his knowledge and promoting wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, and environmental sustainability.
