WWF-India is one of the largest conservation organisations engaged in wildlife and nature conservation in the country. Established as a Charitable Trust on 27th November 1969, it has an experience of over four decades in the field. From a modest beginning, the organisation has been propelled forward by the efforts of its founders and associates, who volunteered their time and energy to lend momentum to the conservation movement.

WWF-India stands as a leading non-governmental organisation committed to nature conservation, environmental protection, and development-related issues. With the world facing an escalating number of threats to its biodiversity and natural resources, we proactively seek and implement solutions that promote harmony between humans and nature. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that future generations can revel in a world full of natural resources and wonders.

To suit India's specific ecological and socio-cultural situation, WWF-India articulated its mission in 1987 as follows: 

 

The promotion of nature conservation and environmental protection as the foundation for sustainable and equitable development.

 

The Centre for Environmental Law (CEL)

The Centre for Environmental Law (CEL) was established in 1993 as an integral part of WWF-India. WWF-India's conservation efforts are managed and advanced through CEL's exceptional ability to analyse policies, run campaigns, and make legal interventions on environmental issues. CEL also serves as a valuable resource for environmental law education and research on national, regional, and international levels. CEL proactively establishes professional linkages with government agencies and non-governmental organisations at national and global levels to ensure the successful implementation of its programs.

One of the principal educational activities of CEL since 1993 has been the Diploma Programme in Environmental Law which has been running for over two decades. Over 1500 participants have benefited from the Diploma in Environmental Law Certificate issued by CEL, WWF India.

WWF-India partnered with National Law University, Delhi, in September 2013 to enhance the effectiveness and scope of its educational initiatives. This collaboration has resulted in the availability of two Post Graduate Diploma programmes: Environmental Law and Policy, and Urban Environment Management and Law, both of which have a year-long duration.