Gold Medal Award: Keshab Pradhan

Clive Justice, Jean Smith, and Britt Smith accept award for Keshab Pradhan.

Citation

For over 30 years, you have been a strong advocate for the conservation and protection of the unique Rhododendron species and other alpine floral plants that are native to India's Eastern Himalayan State of Sikkim. Through your leadership and tireless dedication, you have been instrumental in creating safe havens and setting aside protected areas for Sikkim's native Rhododendron species. These plants began to be collected by early plant explorers 150 years ago, and they continue to provide a legacy of species and hybrids valued by rhododendron enthusiasts throughout the world. Your efforts are greatly appreciated by the members of the American Rhododendron Society, some of whom you have graciously hosted during their visits to Sikkim and by countless others who garden with progeny from this great plant treasury. For your outstanding contributions, the American Rhododendron Society is proud to present the Gold Medal to Keshab Pradhan. May 3, 2003, Olympia, Washington.