In memory of Anil Agarwal

MS is saddened by the news that our old friend, Anil Agarwal, has passed away after a prolonged illness, 54 years old. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. Anil Agarwal was the Chairperson of the New Delhi based Centre for Science and Environment.

Agarwal, a mechanical engineer trained at IIT Kanpur, began his journalistic career as a science correspondent for the Hindustan Times in 1973. He was the Editor of Down To Earth, India's premier science and environment magazine. He has written for several international publications including the London-based journals Earthscan and New Scientist. He has written and edited more than 20 books on science and environment in India.

In 1980, Agarwal founded CSE, which developed into being one of the world's most dynamic NGOs.

From 1983 to 1987, Agarwal chaired the world's largest network of environmental NGOs, the Nairobi-based Environment Liasion Centre. In 1987, the United Nations Environment Programme elected him to its Global 500 Honor Roll for his work in the national and international arena. The Indian Government has also honored him with Padma Shri and Padma Bushan for his work in environment and development.

The global NGO community will miss the enormous knowledge, the great commitment and the never endning enthusiasm of Anil Agarwal. But his ideas will always be part of our life and work.

Sincerely yours,
Bjørn Førde
Secretary General