📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Vice President's Secretariat
Science
India's Sitaram Raul Wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 for Rajasthan Scorpion Shot
✍️ Livemint
🗓 24 Oct 2026, 09:31 PM
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Indian photographer Sitaram Raul has been crowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 for his striking scorpion photograph captured in Rajasthan.
The prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 award was presented to Indian photographer Sitaram Raul. His winning entry is a close‑up image of a scorpion taken in the arid landscapes of Rajasthan, showcasing the creature’s intricate form and the region’s stark beauty.
The accolade, part of an internationally recognised competition that celebrates excellence in wildlife photography, highlights the growing prominence of Indian talent on the global stage. Raul’s photograph stood out among hundreds of submissions from around the world for its composition, technical skill and the rare glimpse it offers into the life of a desert scorpion.
Raul, who has been active in wildlife photography for several years, said the image was captured during a field trip to Rajasthan’s semi‑desert zones, where he spent hours waiting for the nocturnal arachnid to emerge. The award will be presented at the competition’s ceremony later this year, further cementing his reputation among nature photographers.
Industry observers note that such recognition can boost conservation awareness, as striking visuals often draw public attention to lesser‑known species and fragile habitats. Raul’s success is expected to inspire other Indian photographers to pursue similar projects in the country’s diverse ecosystems.
The accolade, part of an internationally recognised competition that celebrates excellence in wildlife photography, highlights the growing prominence of Indian talent on the global stage. Raul’s photograph stood out among hundreds of submissions from around the world for its composition, technical skill and the rare glimpse it offers into the life of a desert scorpion.
Raul, who has been active in wildlife photography for several years, said the image was captured during a field trip to Rajasthan’s semi‑desert zones, where he spent hours waiting for the nocturnal arachnid to emerge. The award will be presented at the competition’s ceremony later this year, further cementing his reputation among nature photographers.
Industry observers note that such recognition can boost conservation awareness, as striking visuals often draw public attention to lesser‑known species and fragile habitats. Raul’s success is expected to inspire other Indian photographers to pursue similar projects in the country’s diverse ecosystems.