10th Community Agro-Biodiversity Conservation Award 2026
Kakkottara Tharavad
The Kakkottara Kurichiya Tharavad in Villamunda is a remarkable example of how agriculture and culture remain inseparably linked in Wayanad. More than a source of livelihood, the Tharavad has become a hub for agro‑biodiversity conservation, nurturing five varieties of traditional paddy seeds, three banana plantations, six types of vegetables, and eight types of tubers. Alongside these, diverse spices, medicinal herbs, and plant varieties are carefully preserved, ensuring that ecological heritage and indigenous knowledge are passed on to future generations. Adding to its uniqueness, the sacred grove (kaavu) within the ancestral compound serves as a living storehouse of rare and endangered trees, reinforcing the family’s role as custodians of biodiversity. Their resilience in the agricultural field is strengthened by group cohesion and teamwork, which help them overcome challenges while maintaining the deep cultural connection to farming. The 10th Community Agro-Biodiversity Conservation Award is presented to Kakkottara Tharavad for their valuable efforts at Biodiversity preservation.
Mallan
In Pulpally, where agrarian distress is prevalent, the story of Thazhesseri Adiya Unnathi, Mallan, and his family stands out as an example of hope and resilience. On their 60‑cent plot of land, they grow bananas, roots and tubers, black pepper, ginger, and turmeric. They also rear buffalo, cows, and goats, showing how mixed farming can provide stability in times of climate change. Their flexibility is clear—they work with many crops, whether it’s ginger, turmeric, or even coffee, always finding ways to adapt.
For Mallan and his family, farming is not just about money. Their efforts bring social benefits too, improving the lives of people around them. Mallan and family’s journey from being a farm worker to becoming a self‑reliant farmer has inspired his community and the wider farming world. Their dedication to protecting and conserving crops has been recognized with the 10th Agro‑Biodiversity Conservation Award, proving their commitment to sustainable farming and community well‑being.