The 31st edition of the Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Award for Environmental Protection was presented in Chennai.
Sahaja Samrudha from Mysuru received the award for conserving traditional paddy varieties and millets through community-based biodiversity initiatives.
Veerappan, a Irular fisherman from Kalaignar Nagar, was honoured for his efforts in mud crab propagation and training students in sustainable aquaculture.