Some people become known for what they achieve. Others quietly dedicate years of their lives to causes that rarely make headlines, but leave a lasting impact on the communities, people and animals around them. Their stories are often shared in small circles, on social media or within the communities they serve - but their work deserves a much larger platform. Celebrating such extraordinary contributions, Times Now is all set to felicitate the Amazing Indians of 2026 on September 30 in New Delhi. The awards recognise Indians whose work reflects compassion, dedication and a spirit of selfless service, highlighting individuals who are making a difference by transforming the world around them. From protecting endangered wildlife and rescuing injured animals to creating education, rehabilitation and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities, this year's nominees represent diverse forms of service. Their journeys span decades, professions and geographies, but are united by a commitment to creating meaningful change. At 29, Aurobindo Samal has already spent more than a decade working in wildlife rescue and conservation. As Chairman of the Earth Crusaders Organisation (ECO), a wildlife conservation and animal rescue organisation based in Odisha, Samal works across wildlife rescue, management, research, conservation awareness and community participation. His work covers mammals and reptiles, alongside community-based conservation initiatives. He has contributed to research on smooth-coated otters in Odisha and Gujarat, including a community-based conservation project in Puri. He has also co-authored research documenting Indian wildlife species, including the Indian pangolin and several reptiles. His journey combines scientific research with hands-on fieldwork and efforts to involve local communities in wildlife protection. According to his LinkedIn profile, Samal holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Science from C.V. Raman College of Engineering, Bhubaneswar. For Colonel Dr Navaz Shariff, wildlife conservation has brought together his experience as a veterinarian, former Army officer and conservationist. The 69-year-old is associated with People for Animals (PfA), Bengaluru, where he has served as Chief Wildlife Veterinarian and General Manager. Dr Shariff has led efforts to rescue, treat, rehabilitate and release injured and orphaned wildlife, with a particular focus on Bengaluru's urban wildlife. Under his guidance, PfA has responded to rescue calls involving a wide range of species and developed species-specific rehabilitation practices. He has also been involved in public awareness initiatives concerning threats to wildlife, including deadly kite strings and the challenges faced by animals in urban environments. PfA Bengaluru has rescued tens of thousands of wild animals across more than 200 species, with Dr Shariff representing the organisation in conservation and veterinary programmes. With around 25 years dedicated to wildlife conservation, Dr Koustubh Sharma, 48, has built a career at the intersection of science and conservation. A wildlife scientist, conservationist and social worker, Sharma has been associated with the Snow Leopard Trust since the early 2000s and currently serves as its Science & Conservation Director. His academic background includes a PhD in Wildlife Zoology from the University of Mumbai, alongside a foundation in Physics. He combines quantitative science, ecological modelling, technology and field research to study snow leopards and their habitats. For Parveen Shaikh, protecting India's threatened riverine birds involves both scientific research and the participation of the communities living alongside them. The 37-year-old is a Scientist D and Head of the Riverine Bird Conservation Programme at the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). With an MSc in Environmental Science and more than a decade of experience as a conservation professional and social worker, Shaikh has focused much of her work on the endangered Indian Skimmer along the Chambal. Through the "Guardians of the Skimmer" initiative, she has trained and engaged local communities to protect nesting colonies and monitor vulnerable birds. Her work brings together field research and community participation to address the challenges faced by riverine bird species. Disability — Care, Rehabilitation & Developmental Support For more than two decades, Anita Agarwal has worked to expand opportunities and support systems for children and individuals with disabilities. The 51-year-old is the founder of Pahela Kadam Special School, run by the Narayani Charitable Trust in Dhanbad, Jharkhand.