India’s Oldest NGO – Bombay Natural History Society

On 15 September 1883, six Indians and two Englishmen met at the Victoria and Albert Museum and founded the Bombay Natural History Society. After about a year, they shifted base to a building in Fort Mumbai. Initially, its members met to discuss issues and to exchange notes.

By 1965, Hornbill House was finished with the help of the Prince of Wales, and a library and museum were added. The society’s motto changed over years to research-based action and conservation of India’s wildlife. They organise research and conservation along with students, scientists and wildlife enthusiasts. The society’s logo is the hornbill.

Dr Salim Ali, India’s most famous ornithologist, has a long association with this organisation. The Bombay Natural History Society has won many awards and recognitions. It is currently located at Dr Sálim Ali Chowk on the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Road in Mumbai.