Cheruvayal K. Raman receives inaugural Oommen Chandy Memorial Award

Cheruvayal K. Raman, a revered figure in Kerala’s agricultural community, has been named the recipient of the inaugural Oommen Chandy memorial award for his exceptional contributions to the state’s farm sector. The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister T. Siddique while unveiling the 2025 Kerala State Farm Awards in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, August 9, 2026. The award carries a cash prize of ₹5 lakh, along with a citation and plaque.

A Champion of Native Paddy and Biodiversity

Raman, affectionately known as the "guardian of native paddy," hails from the tribal community in Wayanad district. He expressed his joy at receiving the award named after the late Congress leader and former Chief Minister, Oommen Chandy. In 2023, Raman was also honored with the Padma Shri for his contributions to sustainable agriculture and biodiversity preservation. Speaking to The Hindu, he emphasized the importance of encouraging farming and supporting farmers.

Recognizing Excellence Across Kerala’s Agricultural Landscape

The Kerala State Farm Awards, comprising 38 categories, highlighted achievements across diverse areas of farming. Anitha M. Kasim from Changanassery was recognized as the best urban rooftop farmer, a newly introduced category. Raja Narayanan from Thrissur won the Sibi Kallingal memorial ‘Karshakoththama’ award, while Shajahan V.Y. was named the best organic farmer.

Local bodies were also celebrated, with the Koduvally block panchayat and Ullikkal grama panchayat jointly receiving the ₹5 lakh C. Achutha Menon memorial award for their farming initiatives. The Krishi Bhavan in Kuttoor, Pathanamthitta, earned the V.V. Raghavan memorial award for excellence in agricultural services.

Honoring Research and Innovation

Prominent awards also recognized individuals and groups for their contributions to agricultural research and innovation. Haseena Bhaskar, Professor at Kerala Agricultural University, Mannuthy, received the M.S. Swaminathan Award for agricultural research. The Nenmeni Paadasekhara Samiti in Palakkad was awarded the K. Viswanathan (Mitra Niketan) memorial ‘Nelkathir’ award for its efforts in farming.

Diverse Categories Highlight Kerala’s Farming Prowess

Other notable winners included K.K. Xavier from Kozhikode (Kerakesari), Gottiyarkandi Unnathi from Palakkad (heritage farming/seed and crop conservation), Hashiq K. from Wayanad (best young farmer), and Rejeesh K. from Kannur (Haritha Mithra). Awards also recognized excellence in hi-tech farming, mushroom cultivation, beekeeping, and more.

Awards Ceremony Scheduled for August 17

The awards will be presented by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on August 17, coinciding with Chingam 1, at an event in Kalamassery. The recognition of these agricultural pioneers underscores Kerala’s commitment to sustainable farming and innovation in the sector.

Source: The Hindu