Community Agro-biodiversity Conservation Awards 2023

Mr. Balan nellarachal

An integrated farm maintained by a Mullukuruma family is located at Nellarachal in Ambalavayal Panchayat. The family conserves native breeds of chicks and livestock, along with 11 varieties of tubers, 2 traditional paddy varieties, native tree species, and spices. In recognition of their dedicated efforts in agrobiodiversity conservation and sustainable farming, WDTDAC awarded the family a cash prize of ₹20,000 and a certificate of appreciation.

Noorank

The Bettakuruma women tuber farmers’ collective, known as “Noorank,” is located near Kattikulam in Thirunelly Panchayat. The collective conserves over 40 varieties of tubers on leased land, demonstrating strong commitment to agrobiodiversity conservation. In recognition of their dedicated efforts, the group was awarded second place and received a cash prize of ₹15,000 along with a certificate of appreciation.

Mr. Ayyappan Pilakavu

Ayyappan Pilakavu is a Mullukuruma youth farmer from the forest-surrounded village of Pilakavu in Noolpuzha. He cultivates 8 varieties of tubers and 13 varieties of vegetables, demonstrating strong commitment to sustainable farming and agrobiodiversity conservation. In recognition of his efforts, he received a Special Mention Award with a cash prize of ₹10,000 and a certificate of appreciation.