In a landmark moment for India’s wildlife conservation efforts, the first-ever live photograph of a female Kaiser-i-Hind butterfly (Teinopalpus imperialis, Hope 1843) has been captured in Sikkim. The rare sighting occurred on January 3, 2025, at 2:30 PM in the temperate forests of Ravangla, situated at an altitude of 2,300 meters. The stunning photograph was taken by Dr. Chewang Norbu Bhutia and Dr. Hishey Ongmu Bhutia, a veterinary couple and residents of Ravangla. The Kaiser-i-Hind, known as the “Emperor of India,” is a highly elusive and endangered species, protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022, highlighting its critical conservation status. The female specimen’s identification was confirmed by renowned conservationist and Limca Book of Records holder Nawang Gyatso Bhutia, along with nature enthusiasts Kavita Rai, Prem Baniya Chettri, and Sonam Wangchuk Rongkop (Lepcha), an executive member of the Butterflies and Moths of Sikkim Nature Conservation Society (BAMOS-NCS). The validation process was further supported by eminent lepidopterists Dr. Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi and Dr. Sailendra Dewan of ATREE.
Dr. Chewang Bhutia revealed the photograph during his visit to the BAMOS-NCS awareness stall at the Cho-dzo Fest 2025 – Discover Rabong on April 14. Expressing his gratitude, he shared, “The Butterflies and Moths of Sikkim awareness initiative was highly informative and meaningful. I am thankful for the support in confirming the butterfly’s identity, which greatly enhanced the event.” This groundbreaking sighting not only marks a significant moment in India’s lepidopterology records but also provides a major boost to butterfly tourism in Sikkim. With over 720 documented species, Sikkim has become a prominent hub for butterfly enthusiasts, researchers, and photographers from across the globe. Organizations such as BAMOS-NCS play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable eco-tourism through nature trails, educational initiatives, and community involvement. Dr. Chewang Bhutia is also an advocate for cultural heritage and sustainable livelihoods. Through his brand Craft Fibers, he supports rural artisans, especially women, by promoting eco-friendly handlooms made from natural fibers such as angora, yak wool, sheep wool, nettle, hemp, and silk. His efforts contribute to both the preservation of Sikkim’s weaving traditions and the economic empowerment of local communities.
This historic sighting underscores the significance of Sikkim as a key conservation area. While populations of the Kaiser-i-Hind in other regions of India, such as Darjeeling and the Northeast, face threats from habitat loss caused by invasive species like Malingo bamboo and unsustainable agricultural practices, Sikkim remains a sanctuary for this Near Threatened butterfly. It is one of only two Himalayan butterflies listed on the IUCN Red List, highlighting the importance of continued conservation efforts in the region.
