The Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) proudly marked a significant milestone with the commencement of its 20th anniversary celebrations on February 28, 2025. The event coincided with National Science Day and KSBB's founding day, established on February 28, 2005. The official logo for the 20th anniversary celebrations was formally unveiled by the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri. Pinarayi Vijayan, on February 27, 2025. The anniversary day event was hosted at the Government Guest House, Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram. Dr. R. Bindu, the Honourable Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice, Government of Kerala, inaugurated the celebrations, setting the stage for a year of reflection and renewed commitment to biodiversity conservation. A key highlight was the unveiling of the One-Year Action Plan for the 20th Anniversary Programme (2025–2026), presenting KSBB's strategic goals and ambitious projects for the upcoming year. The celebrations also featured the release of important resource materials and publications, including the Biodiversity Club Pamphlet, the updated KSBB Brochure and District-Level Reports on the RKI - Agrobiodiversity Project. This inspiring event underscored the collective efforts and partnerships between government agencies, educational institutions, and biodiversity experts, all striving to foster conservation and sustainable development in Kerala. KSBB's 20th anniversary is not just a reflection on the past but a celebration of ongoing initiatives that safeguard Kerala's rich natural heritage.
Distinguished attendees in the event included Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman, KSBB; Padma Shri MC Dathan, Mentor Science to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Kerala; Dr. R.V. Varma, Former Chairman, KSBB; Dr. Bhaskaran C., Former Chairman, State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC); Dr. Oommen V. Oommen, Former Chairman, KSBB; Dr. C. George Thomas, Former Chairman, KSBB; Shri. Pramod G. Krishnan, IFS, Chief Wildlife Warden, Kerala Forest Department & KSBB Board Member; Dr. S.D. Biju, Member, KSBB; Dr. A.V. Santhoshkumar, Member, KSBB; Dr. Minimol J.S., Member, KSBB; Shri. Baiju N. Kurup, Chief General Manager, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD); and Dr. V. Balakrishnan, Member Secretary, KSBB. This event gathers subject experts from Selected R&D, Academic institutes, policymakers, stakeholders from 28 line departments (Virtual Biodiversity Cadres), representatives from Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), Members from Technical Support Groups (TSG’s), Students and teachers from Beema Palli School, other distinguished guests and staff of KSBB.
Welcome to the first edition of EKAA Newsletter in 2025, where we highlight the Biodiversity Board’s accelerated actions in the ongoing journey towards ecological sustainability. As we step into our 20th year, we celebrate two decades of dedicated efforts in biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits that arise from it.
This edition carries 11 inspiring stories, but I would like to bring your attention to four key initiatives that stand out. The first is the Every Child a Scientist & Artist Program, which aims to nurture and sustain the curiosity of our young minds, encouraging them to explore the wonders of nature and fostering a deep-rooted connection with the environment. The second is the She-Bio Initiative, a program that recognizes and celebrates the invaluable contributions of women in Kerala towards biodiversity conservation, highlighting their pivotal role as key agents of change in safeguarding our natural heritage. Third, we have the Jaivajalakam initiative, a student-centric biodiversity education program designed to engage both school students and teachers in awareness programs and action plans aimed at protecting and preserving nature. Finally, we proudly highlight the launch of a Freshwater Fish Breeding Project in collaboration with two renowned institutions focused on aquatic biodiversity. This project seeks to breed 10 rare, endemic, and threatened freshwater fish species, ensuring the protection and enhancement of aquatic life in our state.
As we reflect on these milestones, we invite you, our readers, to join us in the 2030 Mission to make Kerala the most biodiversity-friendly state in India. Our collective efforts, big and small, can contribute to a difference—today and for the years to come in the conservation of our unique and fragile biodiversity and ecosystems.
N. Anil Kumar
The Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) has unveiled the innovative Every Child A Scientist and Artist (ECASA) program, aiming to ignite scientific curiosity and artistic creativity among children aged 10-16, particularly in urban areas. Launched by Dr. R. Bindu, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice, during the 20th anniversary celebrations of KSBB, this initiative draws inspiration from Kerala’s rich biodiversity. The program provides hands-on experiences in local ecosystems to combat "Nature-Deficit Disorder" while nurturing a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and bio-cultural heritage. Participants will explore science and art through engaging activities such as field projects, interactive workshops, digital content creation, residential camps, and art-science fairs.Padma Shri MC Dathan, Mentor Science to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, inaugurated the ECASA sessions for children, with the first session led by Dr. E. Kunhikrishnan, an environmentalist and wildlife enthusiast, on the topic “An Introduction to Biodiversity of Kerala”. Open to students, teachers, parents, and biodiversity advocates, ECASA aspires to inspire Kerala’s next generation of eco-conscious scientists and artists.
The Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) held a National Level Consultation on February 28, 2025, at the Government Guest House, Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram, to update the Kerala State Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (KSBSAP). This initiative aligns with the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF).The consultation focused on revising the KSBSAP, mainstreaming biodiversity conservation into state planning across departments, and developing a detailed monitoring framework. A diverse group of 152 participants—including researchers, professors, national experts, scientists, BMC representatives, and virtual biodiversity cadres—contributed their insights to shape the roadmap for sustainable biodiversity initiatives in Kerala.
Critical insights included Aligning KSBSAP with NBSAP & KM-GBF to reflect global biodiversity goals, Identifying actionable steps for integrating biodiversity into departmental policies and developing a monitoring mechanism with indicators to track implementation progress.The event featured an engaging presentation by Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman, KSBB, offering an insightful overview of the updated KSBSAP. Dr. J. Soundrapandi, Project Officer from UNDP, National Biodiversity Authority, delivered a virtual presentation on “KM-GBF and India’s Updated NBSAP 2024-2030.” He elaborated on KM-GBF’s core principles and their integration into India’s biodiversity strategy.
The program concluded with expert responses, group discussions, and deliberations, strengthening the collective resolve to protect Kerala’s biodiversity while fostering sustainable development.
On March 10, 2025, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB), in collaboration with the Botany Department of the University of Kerala, hosted a meaningful discussion titled "She harnesses ecosystems for biodiversity-inspired outcomes" (She Bio) to mark International Women’s Day. The event emphasized the pivotal role of women in ecosystem restoration and sought strategies to advance gender equality and inclusivity in biodiversity management across Kerala. The discussions were aligned with KM-GBF Targets 22 and 23, which promote gender equality, inclusive governance, and equitable access to benefits in biodiversity conservation. KSBB aimed to inspire interest groups to develop projects that integrate these principles and encourage the diverse participation of women from various socio-cultural backgrounds for sustainable outcomes.A dynamic group of 140 participants, including women chairpersons of selected Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), convenors, Kudumbasree representatives, virtual cadre members, women farmers, fishery professionals, academicians, students, and KSBB officials, contributed their valuable insights during the event. The event was inaugurated by Dr. B. Sandhya I.P.S (DGP Rtd and Chairperson (i/c), Kerala Real Estate Regulatory Authority), who highlighted the importance of biodiversity literacy in Kerala and urged KSBB to take the lead in promoting it. Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman, KSBB, presided over the function, alongside distinguished speakers including Dr. V. Balakrishnan (Member Secretary, KSBB), Dr. E.A. Siril (Prof. and Head, Dept. of Botany, University of Kerala), Dr. Shanavas (Representative, Kudumbasree), Dr. T.S. Swapna (Professor, Dept. of Botany), and Dr. E.M. Radhamony (Emeritus Professor and Syndicate Member, University of Kerala).
A notable highlight was an online lead talk session on ‘KMGBF and Gender Responsive Approaches to Biodiversity Conservation’, conducted by a representative from the Women 4 Biodiversity group, Bangalore. The session delved into gender dimensions and women’s roles in preserving forests, wetlands, farmlands, and coastal and marine ecosystems. The participants, including were divided into core groups for focused discussions. Their collective deliberations culminated in a plenary session, where group chairpersons presented actionable strategies for empowering women in biodiversity management. The program concluded with a valedictory session at 4 PM, graced by Padmasree M.C. Dathan, Mentor (Science) to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, as the Chief Guest. Sri Pramod G. Krishnan IFS inaugurated the session, while Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman, KSBB, delivered the concluding remarks. The event wrapped up with Dr. Akhila S. Nair, Senior Research Officer, KSBB, extending the vote of thanks.Through this remarkable initiative, KSBB reaffirmed its commitment to fostering gender-responsive approaches and inclusivity in biodiversity conservation.
As part of the International Conference on Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CARE-25), the International Consultation on Agrobiodiversity in a Changing Climate took center stage on March 24, 2025, at the Seminar Hall Complex of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). This highly impactful side event was a collaborative endeavor by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB), CUSAT, and the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, Wayanad.The consultation delved into the pivotal role of custodian farmers, who act as the guardians of agrobiodiversity, in safeguarding traditional knowledge and practices while embracing innovative, climate-smart agricultural strategies. These efforts are fundamental to ensuring sustainable agriculture, food security, and resilience in the face of a rapidly changing climate. Discussions underscored the importance of empowering local communities, particularly farmers, in biodiversity conservation efforts, with an emphasis on incorporating gender and equity-focused approaches.Through this consultation, KSBB, in partnership with its collaborators, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing agrobiodiversity as a cornerstone of climate resilience. This initiative stands as a call to action for integrating traditional wisdom with modern innovation to secure a sustainable and equitable agricultural future.
The event was inaugurated by Dr. R. V. Varma, Former Chairman of KSBB, who stressed the need to document traditional knowledge to preserve biodiversity. Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman, KSBB, presided over the session, advocating for a farmer consortium to conserve Kerala's unique biodiversity. Dr. Regine Andersen from Norway delivered the keynote on the importance of Community Seed Banks for food security. Dr. C. George Thomas emphasized climate resilience strategies for Kerala's agriculture, while other notable speakers included Dr. Shakeela V., Dr. C. K. Peethambaran, and Dr. Jiji Joseph. The program concluded with a plenary session. Dr. Akhila S. Nair welcomed the gathering and aformal vote of thanks by Dr. K. Sreedharan, KSBB.
As part of Wetland Day 2025, On 5/02/2025, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) launched a project to conserve ten rare, endemic, and threatened inland fish species. The species selected for the project include Hyselobarbus thomassi, Dawkinsia exclamation, Horabagrus nigricollaris, Dawkinsia chalakkudiensis, Osteochilichthys longidorsalis, Clarias dussumieri, Eechathalakenda ophicephalus, Tariqilabeo periyarensis, Hypselobarbus periyarensis and Dawkinsia denisonii. The program featured insightful speeches from prominent figures, including Sri. Pramod G. Krishnan IFS, Dr. Oommen V. Oommen, and Dr. Rajeev Raghavan, along with an online talk by Dr. Jörg Freyhof from Berlin.
Discussions centered on sustainable livelihoods, freshwater fish diversity, and conservation challenges. A panel comprising researchers, policymakers, and experts identified key action areas. To protect wetlands and freshwater ecosystems, decisions were made to strengthen community-based conservation by establishing Local Biodiversity Heritage Sites (LBHS) and "no-take zones" for endemic and threatened fish species. Collaboration with academic institutions will drive research on fish diversity, breeding protocols, and mitigating threats like invasive species, pollution, and climate change. Awareness campaigns, citizen science initiatives, and training programs will engage local communities and Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) in conservation efforts. Measures will be enforced to combat illegal fishing, wildlife trafficking, and invasive species, ensuring equitable benefit-sharing in line with international frameworks. Enhanced inter-departmental coordination, biodiversity documentation, and exploration of economic opportunities, such as Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) and inclusion of native fish in state programs, were also prioritized. The event, attended by 145 participants from various sectors, concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. C.S. Vimalkumar.
On January 11 and 12, 2025, the Biodiversity Management Committee of Panathady Grama Panchayat collaborated with the Kerala Forest & Wildlife Department (Kasaragod Division), Kasaragod Birders, Ranipuram Vana Samrakshana Samithi, and Team Saaliga to conduct a comprehensive spider survey at Ranipuram. This initiative aimed to update the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) and enhance understanding of arachnid diversity. The event was officially inaugurated by Dr. V. Balakrishnan, Member Secretary of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board, with K. Rahul, Range Forest Officer, Kanhangad, as the chief guest. S. Madhusoodhanan, President of Ranipuram Vana Samrakshana Samithi, presided over the function, alongside other distinguished guests.
A dedicated team of experts and enthusiasts successfully documented 110 spider species across 24 families, including Salticidae, Thomisidae, Philodromidae, clubionidae, Eutichuridae, Uloboridae, Oxyopidae, Therididae etc., underscoring the rich biodiversity within Ranipuram’s forests. As part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, Ranipuram is home to numerous rare and endemic species, representing a valuable resource for scientific research and conservation efforts. The survey contributed significant data to the PBR and emphasized the critical importance of protecting Ranipuram’s fragile ecosystem. Participants gained a profound appreciation for the region’s unique biodiversity and the interconnectedness of its wildlife. In recognition of Ranipuram’s ecological significance, the Panathady Biodiversity Management Committee is proposing its designation as a Local Biodiversity Heritage Site to enhance conservation measures and ensure the long-term preservation of this exceptional ecosystem.
The Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) of Kayanna Gramapanchayat achieved a noteworthy milestone by successfully compiling and releasing its Local Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (LBSAP) on January 13, 2025. The release of the LBSAP documentation was officiated by Adv. P. A. Muhammed Riyas, Honourable Minister for Public Works and Tourism, Kerala, emphasizing the panchayat's dedication to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This initiative, technically guided and financially supported by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) under the 2023-24 plan scheme, represents a significant step forward in biodiversity conservation. The event, presided over by Balussery MLA Adv. K. M. Sachin Dev, drew a large gathering at the Kayanna Fest, marking a momentous occasion for the region. Distinguished leaders and officials, including Block Panchayat President N. V. Babu, Kayanna Gramapanchayat President C. K. Sasi, Vice President Smt. P. T. Sheeba, District Panchayat Member V. P. Dulquifil, KSBB District Coordinator Dr. K. P. Manju, and the BMC Convenor, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of this achievement. The release of Kayanna's LBSAP holds the distinction of being the first in Kozhikode district, setting a benchmark for conservation initiatives in the region and reaffirming Kayanna Gramapanchayat's commitment to biodiversity preservation and sustainable practices.
As part of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board's (KSBB) Ecorestoration Project, the Kaniyampatta Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) has undertaken a Sacred Grove Conservation initiative. Two sacred groves within the BMC jurisdiction have been selected for the project. The program was formally inaugurated at Panankandy Kavu, a renowned sacred grove in the region, on February 10, 2025. The conservation project focuses on preparing biodiversity inventories for the selected sacred groves, restoring endemic tree species, conserving ponds and wetlands associated with these groves, and implementing holistic ecosystem management strategies. A member of the BMC emphasized that this initiative aligns with the broader goal of restoring all sacred groves within the committee's purview. This project underscores the importance of preserving sacred groves as critical components of biodiversity and ecological balance, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.
On March 29, 2025, the Biodiversity Club of SDV UP School organized a visit to Vandanam Sacredgrove as part of a biodiversity awareness program funded by the Kerala State Biodiversity Board. The visit aimed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the biodiversity within the sacred grove. Under the guidance of Dr. Jose Mathew, Assistant Professor at SD College, students had the opportunity to explore the flora and fauna of the sacred grove. During their exploration, they identified biodiversity threats, including the presence of invasive species that pose risks to the ecosystem. An awareness session followed the visit, conducted by Mr. Baiju, a retired science teacher, who emphasized the importance of conservation efforts. Inspired by the experience, the Biodiversity Club resolved to submit a formal request, accompanied by their study report, to the Ambalappuzha Vadakku Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC). The request seeks to initiate an eco-restoration project for the sacred grove, focusing on the removal of invasive plants to restore its ecological balance.
