Community Agro-biodiversity Conservation Awards 2025

Mr. Kanaran Cholakolly

Mr. Kanaran Cholakolly and his family secured the first place in recognition of their outstanding efforts in agrobiodiversity conservation and sustainable farming. The selection was based on the diversity of their farms across both wetland and upland areas, effective integration of cash and food crops, and the active participation of all family members in agricultural operations. The award committee unanimously appreciated their remarkable conservation legacy and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. The family received a cash award of ₹20,000 and a certificate of appreciation. Their conservation highlights include 3 traditional rice varieties, native varieties of pepper, ginger, and turmeric, 5 native banana varieties, 6 tuber varieties, 5 vegetable varieties, and numerous fruit varieties, reflecting their dedicated efforts to preserve agricultural biodiversity.

Mr. CheriyaKelu

Mr. Cheriya Kelu and the Valakottil Kurichia joint family were selected for second place in recognition of their remarkable efforts in sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. The selection was based on the diversity of their farms across both wetland and upland areas, effective integration of cash and food crops, conservation of rare endemic and threatened plant species, and the protection of a sacred grove. The award committee unanimously agreed on their selection for second place. The family received a cash award of ₹10,000 and a certificate of appreciation. Their conservation highlights include 4 traditional rice varieties, 5 types of banana, 11 vegetable varieties, along with diverse tubers and spices, reflecting their strong commitment to preserving agrobiodiversity.

Mr. Kelu and Puliyottil Kurichia

Kelu and the Puliyottil Kurichia joint family were selected for second place in recognition of their outstanding efforts in sustainable agriculture and agrobiodiversity conservation. The selection was based on the diversity of their farms across both wetland and upland areas, effective integration of cash and food crops, conservation of rare endemic and threatened plant species, protection of sacred groves, and their extensive agrobiodiversity conservation practices. The family received a cash award of ₹10,000 and a certificate of appreciation. On their 8 acres of land, they conserve 5 traditional rice varieties along with diverse bananas, spices, vegetables, and tubers, reflecting their strong commitment to preserving agricultural biodiversity.