Pakshi Awards: Bird Photographer of the Year

A prestigious international bird photography competition celebrating the beauty, diversity, and wonder of avian life through captivating photography.

The Pakshi Awards: Bird Photographer of the Year is a prestigious recognition celebrating the artistry and dedication of bird photographers. This award honors individuals who capture the beauty, diversity, and essence of avian life through their lens.

The Pakshi Awards are sponsored by NTPC, India's largest integrated Power Company. These awards recognize and honor passionate photographers who capture birds in their natural habitats. This competition provides photographers with an amazing opportunity to display their photography skills while contributing to raising awareness about bird conservation.

State Tourism Partner: Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board

Uttar Pradesh, known for its Ramsar sites and famous bird sanctuaries (Nawabganj, Soor Sarovar, Samaspur, Bhakira, Sarsai Nawar, etc.), plays a vital role in bird conservation. As the Destination/State Tourism Partner, the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board is offering 3 exclusive Bird Safari Tours (4 days, 3 nights) to the top 3 winners!

Submission Categories

Participants are encouraged to submit photographs capturing the following aspects:

Category

Description

Species Diversity

Showcase a variety of bird species, from common backyard birds to rare and endangered ones, highlighting their characteristics and habitats.
Examples: Migratory Birds, Endangered Birds, Himalayan Birds, Backyard Birds, Wetland Birds, Native Birds.

Behavioral Moments

Capture birds in action—feeding, building nests, mating displays, courtship rituals, and unique behaviors specific to species.

Flight and Motion

Freeze the dynamic movements of birds in flight, showcasing their agility, grace, and freedom in the sky.

Close-ups

Highlight intricate details such as feathers, eyes, beaks, wings, and unique bird features in close-up shots.

Birds in Habitat

Show birds within their natural environments—forests, wetlands, mountains, urban landscapes—demonstrating habitat diversity.

Bird Portrait Pictures

Capture a complete and well-framed portrait of a bird.

Awards & Prizes

Rank

Cash Prize

Rewards

Gold

Rs. 25,000*

  • 4 Day 3 night stay at a leading Bird Safari Destination in UP*
  • Winner's Certificate
  • Aarts Maestro Portfolio
  • Online Exhibition
  • Mentorship Program

Silver

Rs. 20,000*

Bronze

Rs. 15,000*

4th & 5th

Rs. 8,000*

  • Winner's Certificate
  • Aarts Maestro Portfolio
  • Online Exhibition
  • Mentorship Program

6th - 10th

Rs. 5,000*

11th - 20th

Rs. 2,000*

21st - 30th

Rs. 1,000*

  • Public Choice Awards: 3 prizes (Rs. 3,000, Rs. 2,000 & Rs. 1,000 each for top 3)
  • For All Participants: Participation Certificate | Aarts Maestro Portfolio | Online Exhibition
  • *Bird Safari, Courtesy: Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board

We keep adding prizes as we collaborate with Sponsors and Partners

*Terms and Conditions for Redemption of Prizes:

  • Prizes are non-transferable & can only be redeemed in the name of the winners.
  • The Prize is for a single person only.
  • Where prizes include photo-tours or holiday gift vouchers, all terms and conditions of the respective tour, holiday, or stay for which the prize is redeemed will apply. These terms are non-negotiable and the prizes cannot be redeemed for cash.
  • All winners must furnish Govt photo ID proof upon request.

Click here for Register