The Crocodile Queen
of India
Prem Kanwar Shaktawat
Early Career & Responsibilities
Prem Kanwar Shaktawat joined the Forest Department as a Forester in 2011. Her initial posting was in the Flying Squad, a role that demanded vigilance and courage in controlling wildlife crime.
She actively participated in filing wildlife cases and rescuing animals from danger zones. Her dedication was evident in her work rescuing crocodiles on land—retrieving them from village cattle sheds, residential colonies, and forest roads.
From the beginning, she proved that gender is no barrier to working in the most challenging terrains and situations, setting a precedent for women in the service.
Learning Advanced Rescue Techniques in Australia
In 2024, seeking to enhance her skills, Prem Kanwar joined the Darwin Rescue Team in the Northern Territory, Australia, for a month-long advanced training program in crocodile management.
This experience was transformative. She learned critical techniques including the use of floating traps made of aluminum and PVC pipes, setting traps with bait and fall-gates, and the safe removal of crocodiles. She also mastered scientific data collection—recording sex, number, and size.
Armed with this new knowledge, she returned to India with a vision to revolutionize crocodile rescue operations.
Innovation in India – Building the First Floating Trap
Upon returning to Rajasthan, Prem Kanwar shared the Australian techniques with her mentor, the DCF Wildlife Kota Mr. Anurag kumar bhatnagar. Encouraged by his support, she embarked on a mission to build India’s first floating crocodile trap.
The innovative trap was mounted on an iron trolley for easy mobility to ponds. It was soon put to the test.
The first successful rescue using this technology took place at Chatra Villas Garden, Kota. This success paved the way for numerous safe releases in rivers, proving the efficacy of the floating trap in Indian conditions.
Successful Water Rescues Across Rajasthan
Ramgarh, Jaipur
Khatoali, Kota
Chatra Vilas, Kota
Shergarh, Baran
Prem Kanwar's work has brought a revolutionary approach to crocodile conservation in India, ensuring safer interactions between humans and wildlife.
Best Practice: Crocodile Floating Trap
Wildlife Kota Division
Background & Challenge
We have been conducting crocodile rescue operations since 2011. While we were successful on land—rescuing crocodiles from cattle sheds, residential colonies, and roads—we faced a major limitation: we could not rescue crocodiles living in deep water. Crocodiles possess immense strength in water, making capture nearly impossible using traditional methods.
For almost two years, the department received distress calls regarding a crocodile in the pond of Chhatra Vilas Garden, Nayapura, Kota. Morning walkers and residents were terrified. Whenever our staff approached the basking crocodile, it would vanish into the water, rendering our efforts futile.
In 2024, after training with the Darwin Rescue Team, Australia, we decided to implement a new technique: the Floating Trap.
The Solution
It took time to build not only because it was the first time a floating trap was being built in Rajasthan, but also because the design and estimate had to be precise. We had to guide the welder specifically to ensure the trap would not only float but remain perfectly balanced in water.
Technical Specifications
Structure & Material
Made of Aluminum (light metal) to ensure buoyancy. Unlike heavy iron traps, this structure is designed specifically to float effortlessly.
Dimensions
- Length: 10 feet
- Width: 3 feet
- Height: 2 feet
Balance System
Flanked by 13-foot PVC pipes (250 mm diameter) on both sides. This ensures the trap remains stable even when 2-3 people stand on it during operations.
Windows & Access
5-inch wide windows on top for placing bait. These are also used to safely release smaller crocodiles. Larger crocodiles are released via the main gate.
Gate Mechanism
3x2 feet Gate. A bait string tied to a trigger holder supports the gate. When the crocodile pulls the meat, the holder releases, dropping the gate instantly to lock it in.
Transportation
A custom-designed Iron Trolley was built to safely transport the 10-foot long trap without damage, making it mobile for rescues across districts.
First Success Story
Trap Set: March 30, 2025
Successful Capture: April 13, 2025
"A wave of joy spread throughout Kota city. Finally, the crocodile was caught. We and our senior officials were overjoyed because this was the first time a crocodile was rescued from water in Rajasthan, India."
Locations Deployed
- Chhatra Vilas Garden, Kota
- Khatouli Village
- Ramgarh Dam, Jaipur
- Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Baran
Why It's Safe
- For the Animal: The trap floats on water, preventing drowning or injury. The smooth aluminum interior ensures no scratches.
- For the Team: Rescuers do not need to enter the water directly. The gate locks automatically, and the trap is towed safely.
Future Vision
"If we get more budget, we will make more Crocodile floating traps and trolleys for transportation so that our team can go to any other place in India to rescue crocodiles and release them into their safe habitats. And we train other crocodile rescuers also."
Honored by the Government of Rajasthan
We are thrilled to have received a prestigious award from the Hon'ble Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Government of Rajasthan, a shining recognition of our tireless efforts and unwavering dedication.
Global Recognition & News
Book Unveiling: "Rangers - Women Reshaping the Conservation"
The inspiring story of brave female ranger from Rajasthan, Prem Kanwar Shaktawat, has arrived on the global stage. Her remarkable contributions to forest conservation are featured in this new book by Deepali Atul Deokar (Founder, Exploring Womanhood Foundation).
The book was unveiled in Abu Dhabi by Hon'ble Shri Kirtivardhan Singh, Minister of State for Environment (MoEFCC) & External Affairs, in the esteemed presence of Shri Vivek Menon (WTI Founder & Chair, IUCN SSC). It chronicles the true stories of 14 courageous women rangers protecting India's natural heritage from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal.
Book Cover
Featured Story: The Crocodile Queen
In the Headlines
Dainik Navajyoti Coverage
Dainik Navajyoti Coverage on Floating Cage Trap
Kota Team Rescues Crocodile from Jamwa Ramgarh, Jaipur
Other Wildlife Research & Publications
Smooth Coated Otter Report
A comprehensive report on the behavior, habitat, and conservation status of the Smooth Coated Otter.
Wildlife Identification Field Guide
Expert guide on identifying herbivorous and carnivorous wildlife based on footprints (pugmarks) and habitat signs.
Gallery
Glimpses of rescue operations and wildlife protection
Symbol of Courage & Inspiration
Prem Kanwar Shaktawat’s journey is not just about saving reptiles—it is about breaking barriers.
She proved that women can work fearlessly even in dangerous fields involving snapping jaws and deep waters. She has emerged as India’s first female crocodile rescue expert, a true example of bravery and dedication.
That is why she is proudly known as:
“The Crocodile Queen of India”
Wildlife Rescue Assistance & Training
We specialize in safe crocodile rescues from water bodies and are experts in the innovative Floating Trap technique. We provide professional assistance to handle complex human-wildlife conflicts.
Under the expert guidance of Prem Kanwar Shaktawat, we are dedicated to protecting both wildlife and communities. Reach out to us for guidance, support, or training inquiries.