Newsletter July-September 2025 - Kerala State Biodiversity Board

Chairman's Corner

We are delighted to present the July–September 2025 issue of the EKAA, featuring 13 inspiring stories that showcase Kerala’s vibrant biodiversity initiatives. This quarter reflects the collective energy of communities, schools, researchers, and policymakers working together to safeguard our natural wealth.

Among the highlights are the inland fish conservation projects launched across Elavally, Annamanada, Mallappuzhassery, and Thazhakkara Panchayaths, where native species are being carefully protected during breeding seasons and restocked into rivers and ponds. These efforts, rooted in science and community participation, are helping to revive Kerala’s aquatic ecosystems. Equally noteworthy is the habitat restoration of the freshwater prawn Neela Kaalan in the Chaliyar River, a project that symbolises the recovery of Kerala’s “blue treasure” and the promise of sustainable livelihoods.

The stories in this quarter’s issue remind us that Kerala’s rivers and wetlands are living arteries of culture, food security, and resilience. Now, it is time for Local Self Governments and Biodiversity Management Committees to take the next decisive step: to accelerate mainstreaming biodiversity into every aspect of development planning and resilience building, and help the state to achieve all the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Targets by 2030. By embedding conservation goals into agriculture, fisheries, water management, infrastructure, and education, Kerala can transform grassroots successes into a state-wide model of ecological governance.

N. Anil Kumar
Chairman

Chelannur Grama Panchayat BMC has been officially recognized as a Complete Biodiversity Club Registration Panchayat, a milestone achievement led by its Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC). The declaration was made by Hon’ble Minister for Forests and Wildlife Protection, Sri. A. K. Saseendran, during a ceremony at AKKR Girls Higher Secondary School on 26th July 2025. The event highlighted Chelannur’s exemplary collaboration between local governance and educational institutions in promoting nature conservation. Key stakeholders, including Grama Panchayat President Adv. P. P. Nousheer and BMC Convenor Sri. Sasikumar Chelannur, presented insights into ongoing initiatives, reinforcing the Panchayat’s role as a model for grassroots environmental initiatives in Kerala.

Kerala Agriculture Minister P. Prasad formally inaugurated the 'Karanellu Krishi' (Dryland Paddy Cultivation) project in schools within the Thekkekara Grama Panchayat by sowing seeds at Varenikkal UP School. This initiative is a joint venture of the Thekkekara Grama Panchayat, the Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC), and the school biodiversity clubs. The Minister called for the expansion of farming to all available areas to achieve food self-sufficiency, and he also suggested that modern techniques like hydroponics and aeroponics could be solutions for space constraints. The event was presided over by Mavelikara MLA M.S. Arun Kumar, and saw the participation of the Panchayat President Dr. K. Mohan Kumar, various committee chairpersons, Panchayat members, representatives of political parties, and agricultural experts.

A One-Day Stakeholders’ Workshop was held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, focusing on Kole Paddy: Local Agrobiodiversity Heritage Systems of Kerala: Documentation and Conservation. Organized by M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Community Agrobiodiversity Centre, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, and others, the event brought together farmers, researchers, line departments, and local governments to endorse the region’s biodiversity significance. A literature review synthesis presented at the workshop highlighted the rich biodiversity of the Kole Wetlands, recording numerous species including 155 birds, 53 fish, and various flora, and noted the region's annual farming income of Rs 12 crore. The workshop recognized existing work like the Kole Wetlands Atlas by Kerala Agricultural University and studies by the Kole Birders’ Collective. The key question identified for future inquiry was: 'How can farmers of Kole better involve in this peculiar production system in the changing scenario?', leading to a call for an in-depth study into the biocultural diversity of the paddylands.

The Biodiversity Park project in the Perumpadappu BMC, implemented with financial assistance from the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, has been completed. The park was officially inaugurated and opened to the public by the Honourable Ponnani MLA, Shri P. Nandakumar. During the inaugural ceremony, he highlighted the necessity and importance of biodiversity conservation. The event was presided over by the Honourable Panchayat President, Smt. Binsha Musthafa. The project details were presented by the Malappuram Coordinator for the Biodiversity Board, Shri Anil Kumar R.

The Uduma Grama Panchayat Biodiversity Management Committee has initiated a Heritage Banana Cultivation project at the Aramanganam Government L.P. School in Mangad. The project's goal is the conservation and protection of the region's diverse and traditional banana varieties. Panchayat President P. Lakshmi inaugurated the planting by setting a Charakadali (Red Banana) sapling. The event was presided over by Ward Member Nirmala Ashokan. A total of twenty-five heritage banana varieties were planted, including rare and local types such as Mysore Ethan, Peyan, Pacha Bontha Bathis, Chingan, Kadali, Ney Kadali, Kattukadali, Virupakshi, and NendranVadakkan, ensuring that these valuable genetic resources are preserved for the future.

The Maranalloor Grama Panchayat Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC), with the financial and technical assistance of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, has successfully completed the model biodiversity park, 'Shantivanam'.The park, whose name translates to 'Forest of Peace,' was formally inaugurated by the Honourable MLA, Adv. I. B. Satheesh. In his address, the MLA stressed that biodiversity conservation is both our responsibility to nature and our duty to future generations, serving as the cornerstone for the coexistence of the environment and human life. He urged every individual to participate in conservation efforts.'Shantivanam' is a meticulously curated space, featuring a Nakshatravanam (star-fruit garden), a Butterfly Park, a Medicinal Garden, Forest Fruit varieties, and indigenous Mango species. The entrance is graced by a green lawn and ornamental palms.

Dr. V. Balakrishnan, Member Secretary of the State Biodiversity Board, delivered the keynote address, offering expert proposals for the ecological and sustainable maintenance of the park.

The Payyanur Municipality BMC and the Kerala State Biodiversity Board have launched a joint project to restore the Chamakkavu Sacred Grove near the Vellur Chamakkavu Temple. The project, inaugurated by State Biodiversity Board Secretary Dr. V. Balakrishnan, aims to conserve the 8.5-acre grove, which is vital for maintaining the local water table and providing medicinal plants. The components of the project include establishment of a bio-fence, planting endemic and rare plants, medicinal plants, and installing biodiversity awareness boards. This initiative is part of the municipality's broader efforts to restore decaying habitats, following similar conservation efforts on public ponds and water bodies

Elavally BMC

The Elavally Grama Panchayat Biodiversity Management Committee has launched the Flood Plane Fish (‘Ootha’ in Malayalam) Conservation Project, securing a grant from the Kerala State Biodiversity Board to protect native, threatened fish species. Under this scheme, fish suitable for breeding, including snakehead (Varal), Murrel (Kalluthi), and the endangered Mushi, are collected and released into five selected panchayat ponds, such as Indram Chira and Alikkal Kulam, for successful breeding. After spawning, the fingerlings will be released into canals, rivers, and other water bodies. Fishing is strictly prohibited in the designated breeding ponds, and warning signs have been installed. Kerala State Biodiversity Board member Dr. J.S. Minimol officially inaugurated the project, with Elavally Grama Panchayat President Mr. Geo Fox presiding. The launch included an awareness seminar led by Assistant Extension Officer U. Shan, highlighting the critical need to conserve these indigenous fish.

Annamanada BMC

The Annamanada Panchayat has officially launched the 'Ootha' Inland Fish Conservation Project, an initiative conceptualized by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board. The project aims to protect native inland fish diversity through a restocking approach. The formal inauguration took place when local fish farmer Shri Joseph handed over a Manjakuri to Panchayat President Shri Vinod P. Viku. During the rainy season, many adult native fish attempting to move from the Chalakudy River to inland water bodies for breeding are often caught before they can reproduce. This project, focuses on collecting such fish with the help of local fishers, facilitating their breeding in protected ponds, and then releasing the juveniles back into the river. Beyond restocking, the initiative emphasizes community awareness about the ecological importance of avoiding fishing during the breeding season. The event featured key speeches by ichthyologist Dr. C. P. Shaji and environmental scientist Dr. K. H. Amitha Bachan.

Mallappuzhassery BMC

As part of Kerala’s Inland Fish Conservation Initiative, 50,000 juvenile native fish (snakehead, Murrel etc.) were released into the Pamba River at Aranmula Parappuzha Kadavu. Led by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board in collaboration with Mallappuzhassery Panchayat and the Fisheries Department, the project aims to boost native fish populations during the critical breeding season known as "OothaYilakkam." The event featured key officials including Dr. Anil Kumar N and Dr. C.P. Shaji, who emphasized the ecological importance of halting fishing during spawning. With support from biodiversity committees across five districts, the initiative promotes sustainable aquatic ecosystems and community-driven conservation.

Thazhakkara BMC

Thazhakkara Panchayat BMC has officially launched an inland fish conservation initiative with support from the Kerala State Biodiversity Board and technical aid from Mannar Matsya Bhavan. Inaugurated by MLA M.S. Arun Kumar, the project focuses on restocking thousands of native fish species by protecting them during breeding season in controlled water bodies. Led by the Panchayat Biodiversity Management Committee, the program also promotes ecological awareness and responsible fishing practices. Key local leaders and officials participated in the launch, emphasizing community-driven conservation and the importance of preserving aquatic biodiversity for future generations.

Restoring Chaliyar's Blue Treasure

In a significant step towards ecological restoration, the Vazhayoor Grama Panchayat BMC has successfully implemented a habitat restoration project for the freshwater 'Neela Kaalan prawn’ (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) in the Chaliyar River, supported by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board and the BMC Fisheries Department. Marking the commencement of the project and the species' repopulation, Panchayat President Mr. Vasudevan Master inaugurated the initiative by releasing 50000 juvenile prawns into the river.

Sowing Seeds of Change: Young Minds Bloom at the 18th Students’ Biodiversity Congress! (SBC)

The excitement is growing for the 18th District Level Students’ Biodiversity Congress 2025-2026! For over 17 wonderful years, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) and the General Education Department have nurtured this fantastic platform for our eco-champions. This year, buzzing with the vibrant theme ‘Dharani 2025: Kerala’s Youth Uniting for Biodiversity and Climate Change,’ the congress is a celebration of young talent and passion for our planet. Students are diving into a world of creativity and discovery through district-level project presentations, homestead biodiversity showcases, and lively pencil drawing and painting competitions—with college students also invited to share their innovative project ideas! The wave of enthusiasm has already swept through the districts of Idukki, Kasaragod, Ernakulamand Wayanad, and the district level winners will participate at the upcoming state-level congress.

Jaivajalakam: Bytes, Blooms, and Biodiversity!

We are thrilled to reflect on the resounding success of the last three "Jaivajalakam" monthly online trainings, which took our biodiversity clubs on an illuminating journey through the world of nature and technology. The series kicked off with Dr. C. Jeorge Thomas, who shed light on the vital importance of Agrobiodiversity. This was followed by Dr. Amithabachan K.H., who expertly navigated the fascinating intricacies of Riverine biodiversity. Finally, Dr. Athia U. captivated audiences by venturing into the future, exploring the innovative intersection of Artificial Intelligence and biodiversity. The entire series was met with immense enthusiasm, drawing vibrant participation from approximately 300 clubs across the region. This collective engagement marks a significant stride in our mission to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and fuel their scientific curiosity.

Community Unites for a Cleaner Coast: Beach Drive Targets Marine Menace

A major coastal clean-up and awareness workshop mobilized the Valiyathura community on September 23rd. Organized by ICAR-CMFRI under a KSBB-funded project, the event united local schools, citizens, and researchers in a stand against marine pollution.The drive highlighted the critical threats of marine litter and ghost nets, emphasizing the need for collective action. Following the inauguration, a team of staff, scholars, and enthusiastic students took to the beach, collecting and safely disposing of numerous bags of plastic waste and debris. To cement the message, an interactive awareness lecture was held for students, educating them on the impacts of marine pollution and fostering a lively discussion. The initiative successfully strengthened community engagement, showcasing a powerful collaborative effort to protect our precious coastal ecosystems.

Dr. Minimol J.S.Honored with Prestigious MS Swaminathan Agricultural Research Award

Prof. (Dr.) Minimol J.S. (Board member of KSBB) has been conferred with the prestigious Prof. MS Swaminathan Agricultural Research Award, a high honor instituted by the State Government of Kerala. The award was formally presented by Shri. P. Prasad, the Honourable Minister for Agriculture, Government of Kerala, recognizing her exemplary service and dedication to agricultural science. Named after the celebrated Father of the Indian Green Revolution, this accolade underscores Dr. Minimol's profound impact on the sector. Her commitment to advancing research and promoting sustainable farming practices continues to shape the future of agriculture in Kerala, setting a benchmark for excellence in the field.