N. Badusha selected for the 2026 Kamaruddin Memorial Environmental Award

N. Badusha of Wayanad was selected for the seventh Kamaruddin Memorial Environmental Award for 2026. The Dr Kamaruddin Foundation for Biodiversity Conservation established the award in memory of Dr Kamaruddin, a former Reader in the University of Kerala’s Botany Department and an environmental activist.

The award comprises Rs 25,000, a citation and a plaque. Badusha has worked on environmental and biodiversity conservation in Wayanad for decades. The award presentation was scheduled for 13 November 2026 at the C.L.I.F. C.V. Raman Hall in Kariavattom.

Notable Points

• Invasive plant in Nilgiri shola forests: The invasive plant Passiflora mollissima inhibits the regeneration of native tree species in shola forest patches in the Nilgiri region.
• Historical vulture figures in Wayanad: In February 2016, white-rumped and red-headed vultures in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary numbered around 150, and 17 nests were counted. About 11 nests were seen in March 2016. Diclofenac was believed to be a cause of the decline in vulture numbers.