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Ms. Licypriya Kangujam Climate & Environmental Activist and Founder, The Child Movement. Licypriya is a 13-Years-Old Indian climate activist. She has been championing her cause since six years old to protect, preserve and nurture our environment by fighting climate change. She is one of the youngest climate activists globally and addressed the world leaders at the United Nations Climate Conference 2019 (COP25) in Madrid, Spain, calling the world leaders to take immediate climate action to save our planet and their future. She attended the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly 2022. She is an outspoken young leader inspiring millions of people around the World and one of the leading voices for climate change globally. She spoke in over 400 institutions and other platforms in over 40 countries. And she met over 60 World leaders. Her brave story is being taught in Indian Schools as “Child Hero” in the English Syllabus. She met His Holiness Pope Francis twice and also cast together in the documentary film “Earth for All’. She was praised by United Nations Secretary General Mr. Antonio Guterres as “8-Years- Old Licypriya is the reminder of the world’s obligations towards future generations” in 2019. She is currently working as the Special Envoy for the President of Timor-Leste for Climate Change & Peace. Licypriya has been recognized for her efforts in raising awareness about climate change and its impact on the planet. She has been actively involved in the global climate change movement and has been campaigning for various environmental causes, including air pollution, climate education and plastic waste reduction. She frequently confronted world leaders for climate justice and to pay for the loss and damage caused by the climate crisis to the global south. She is also known for her “Child Movement” campaign, which aims to empower children to take action against climate change and inspire others to join the movement. |
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Ms. Ridhima Pandey Environmental activist, Mother Teresa Memorial Award for Social Justice winner Born in Haridwar to wildlife conservationists, Ridhima Pandey has emerged as one of the most influential young voices in the global climate movement. Her journey began in 2017 when, at nine years old, she filed a landmark petition against the Indian government at the National Green Tribunal for failing to take adequate climate action. In 2019, Ridhima expanded her fight globally as one of 16 child petitioners to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, demanding accountability from five major economic powers. Her fearless advocacy against air pollution and plastic waste earned her a spot on the BBC Top 100 Women list in 2020. Ridhima has served on the Civil Society and Youth Advisory Council for COP26 and is a youth ambassador for the Earth Day Network’s "My Future My Voice" initiative. A seasoned communicator, she has addressed audiences at the Global Pneumonia Forum, Notre Affaire à Tous in Paris, and the Xynteo Exchange in Norway. She continues to mobilize youth worldwide, urging authorities to implement strict bans on plastics and prioritize the preservation of natural resources like the Ganges River. |
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Ms. Prasidhi Singh Founder, Prasidhi Forest Foundation | Environmental Activist Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar Awardee (2021) Prasiddhi: Prasiddhi Singh, age 13, is a globally recognized environmentalist, author, and social entrepreneur whose curiosity for the world is as vast as her commitment to protecting it. Founder of the UN-accredited Prasiddhi Forest, she has planted over 200,000 trees, led 1,000+ workshops, and empowered 80,000+ people across 20+ countries. Her on-ground impact spans mangrove restoration, agroforestry, lake rejuvenation, and even Web3 climate innovation. She has been honoured with the Prime Minister’s National Child Award, The Diana Award UK, the Global Child Prodigy Award Dubai, Women for Change Honour Paris, and the Femina Beautiful Indians Award 2024. As the youngest speaker and Head of Delegation at the UN Climate Conference in Germany, a COP29 Youth Leader, and COP30 Brazil Impact Maker, recently appointed as Official UNICEF India’s only Climate Youth Advocate, she has represented young people on some of the world’s biggest stages, while also collaborating with brands like Garnier, Deloitte, and News18. A TEDx, G20, and NASSCOM spotlight speaker, Prasiddhi’s work has been featured by National Geographic, Wikipedia, and global media. In 2024, she released her debut Prasiddhi's Amazon Rainforest storybook with the Brazil Ministry of Tourism, followed by an international book tour across Geneva, Amsterdam, Brussels, and more. She is a visionary behind GREENBUZZAI.COM, a gamified AI platform that predicts career paths to green jobs. She isn't just waiting for the world to change the world she is the one changing it. |
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Sri. Venkitesh Ramakrishnan Venkitesh Ramakrishnan is a veteran Indian journalist and political analyst with over four decades of experience in print, broadcast, and electronic media. He is currently the Managing Editor of The AIDEM, an independent media platform. Previously, he served as the Senior Associate Editor of Frontline (The Hindu Group), where he was renowned for his in-depth coverage of national politics, communalism, and sociological trends. His extensive career includes associations with major organizations such as The Telegraph, BBC, Deshabhimani, and Indiavision TV. He is widely respected for his long-standing reporting on the Ayodhya issue and North Indian politics. |
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Dr. N.C. Narayanan Professor, Ashank Desai Centre for Policy Studies (ADCPS), IIT Bombay Dr. N. C. Narayanan is a Professor and core faculty member at the Ashank Desai Centre for Policy Studies (ADCPS), IIT Bombay, specializing in governance and policy aspects of water, sanitation, and climate change. He has previously served as Head of ADCPS and has played a pivotal role in shaping interdisciplinary programs, including the Technology and Development Program at CTARA and the Interdisciplinary Program on Climate Studies. His expertise is recognized globally, with appointments as Fulbright Visiting Fellow at UC Berkeley, Adjunct Professor at NIAS Bangalore, and visiting faculty roles at University of Lausanne and Monash University. Dr. Narayanan’s research bridges technology, society, and policy, with a focus on water and sanitation governance, climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction, and local government capacity-building. He actively engages with government bodies, serving on committees for the National Planning Commission and Kerala State Planning Board, and leads projects like the Living Labs initiative and technology solutions for high-water-table areas in collaboration with K-DISC. His work and publications address sustainable water management, digital governance, and climate-smart agriculture in India. |
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Prof. Vimal Mishra Dr. Vimal Mishra is the Vikram Sarabhai Chair Professor in Civil Engineering and Earth Sciences at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar. His research focuses on understanding the impacts of climate variability and climate change on critical societal sectors, including water resources, energy, infrastructure, and food security. Dr. Mishra’s work integrates observed and remotely sensed datasets with large-scale hydrologic modeling to address vital questions regarding human-climate interactions. He investigates how extreme climatic events—such as droughts, floods, and heat waves—have evolved historically and how they are projected to change in the future. His research also explores the extent to which the Indian Monsoon's year-to-year variability affects water storage and food production in India. To answer these complex questions, Dr. Mishra employs a robust methodology combining historical observations, climate projections from regional and global models, and advanced statistical modeling. |
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Prof. Anindita Chakrabarti Prof. Anindita Chakrabarti is a Professor in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur). An accomplished academic and researcher, her work lies at the intersection of law, religion, and social movements, examining how legal institutions, collective action, and belief systems influence social change and democratic practice. She is closely associated with the Centre for Creative Incubation and Entrepreneurship Development (CCIED), where she contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and socially sustainable ecosystems. Areas of Expertise
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Dr. Pramod G. Krishnan IFS Chief Wildlife Warden & Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Administration), Kerala Dr. Pramod G. Krishnan is a senior officer of the Indian Forest Service (IFS), serving as Chief Wildlife Warden and APCCF (Administration) for the Kerala Forest Department. He oversees the management of the state’s wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas, while guiding administrative operations and biodiversity planning as a member of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board. He began his career at the Periyar Tiger Reserve, where he helped establish the Periyar Foundation, a model for community-driven tiger conservation through sustainable tourism. With national and international experience, including roles at the MoEFCC and UNDP, Dr. Krishnan advocates for human–wildlife coexistence, landscape-level conservation, and the use of technology in forestry. He has addressed challenges like human–wildlife conflict and supports innovative tools such as the SARPA app to mitigate risks. A frequent speaker at environmental forums, he continues to influence conservation policy and practice in India. |
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Dr. K.N. Harilal Professor, Centre for Development Studies (CDS), Trivandrum | Chairman, 7th Kerala State Finance Commission. Dr. K. N. Harilal is a distinguished Indian economist and Professor at the Centre for Development Studies (CDS), Trivandrum. He currently serves as Chairman of the 7th Kerala State Finance Commission, overseeing the evaluation of the financial health of local self-government bodies. He has previously served two terms as a member of the Kerala State Planning Board (2006–2011 and 2016–2021), contributing significantly to state policy and planning initiatives. With expertise in development studies, democratic decentralization, and international political economy, Dr. Harilal has worked with organizations such as UNIDO and the Planning Commission of India. He is recognized for promoting evidence-based policy formulation, emphasizing accurate and updated statistical data in governance, and has been honored with the Distinguished Achievement Award by the World Association for Political Economy (2016). |
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Dr. John Mathai Senior Scientist (Retd.), National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), Thiruvananthapuram. Dr. John Mathai is a senior scientist (retired) at the National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), Thiruvananthapuram, with extensive expertise in hazard monitoring, landslide risk management, and geospatial analysis. He has been a key contributor to assessing geological hazards in Kerala, focusing on proactive strategies for disaster mitigation and resilience. His work includes landslide risk mapping, coastal change studies, and hazard monitoring, particularly in the context of Kerala’s monsoon-affected regions. Dr. Mathai’s research integrates technological and scientific approaches to support effective disaster management and sustainable planning in vulnerable landscapes. |
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Dr. Abhilash S Professor & Director, Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research (ACARR), CUSAT, Kochi. Dr. S. Abhilash is a distinguished Indian atmospheric scientist and the Director of ACARR at the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). He earned his M.Sc. in Meteorology (First Rank, Distinction, 2001) and PhD in Atmospheric Sciences (2009) from CUSAT. He began his career as a Senior Research Scientist at Flagstone Reinsurance, Bermuda, and subsequently served as Scientist C and D at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology. He has also been a Visiting Scientist at the University of Miami and the National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), USA. Dr. Abhilash specializes in numerical weather prediction, radar data assimilation, convective storm forecasting, and tropical cyclone modelling. He has developed indigenous coupled multi-model ensemble prediction systems and operational forecasting tools for high-impact weather events in India. Recognized with the SAARC Scientist Medal (2007), IMS Award (2017), and CUSAT Best Young Faculty-Researcher Award (2019), received the T.Peter Memorial award in recognition of the meteorological and climate services he provided to artisanal fishermen and bestowed with world congress on Disaster Management (WCDM) award for the innovations in the development of Early warning systems. He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications, co-authored 20+ books and chapters, and delivered more than 250 popular lectures to advance climate and weather science awareness. |
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Sri. Amrith Lal B Hindusthan Times. Amrith Lal is a senior journalist and commentator who writes primarily on the interface of politics, society, and culture in contemporary India in English and Malayalam. He has worked in various capacities in major national dailies. His columns examine the fault lines of Indian democracy, secularism, and social transformation, foregrounding how power, memory, and cultural narratives shape everyday life. He has published three collections of essays. Currently Editor-Views, Hindustan Times, he lives and works in Delhi. |
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Sri. Mehul Patel Mehul Patel is the Program Lead for the Climate Program at WRI India, specializing in subnational climate action and corporate resilience. With over a decade of experience, he leads the design of inclusive climate action plans for Indian states and cities, focusing on GHG inventories, scenario modelling, and sectoral analysis. A key aspect of his work involves strengthening the climate resilience of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and developing tools for emission profiling. Previously, Mehul served as a Climate Action Expert for 15 cities with GFA Consulting GmbH and as Deputy Chief Resilience Officer with Rockefeller Philanthropy. He has also held advisory roles for Surat City and TARU Leading Edge. Mehul holds a Master’s in Human Resources Development and a Law degree from South Gujarat University, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Disaster Management. Outside of work, he is an avid wildlife photographer and drone enthusiast. |
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Sri. Tirthankar Mandal Tirthankar Mandal is the Associate Director – Energy Policy in the Energy Program at WRI India, where he leads the organization’s energy policy portfolio. In this role, he supports national policymaking by providing evidence-based insights drawn from on-ground projects undertaken by the Energy Program. His work spans key areas such as energy for development, clean energy, India’s energy transition, and urban energy systems. Tirthankar brings with him extensive experience in clean energy, climate change, and development policy analysis. Prior to joining WRI India, he served as a policy expert with leading organizations including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and World Wide Fund for Nature – India (WWF India). His thought leadership on clean energy and rooftop solar in India has been widely published across prominent online and print media platforms. Originally from Kolkata, he is currently based in New Delhi. Outside of his professional work, Tirthankar enjoys reading Bengali literature, exploring less-travelled Himalayan destinations, and spending time in nature. |
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Sri. N.N. Rai Chief Engineer, Central Water Commission (CWC) Mr. Nitya Nand Rai is a senior hydrology professional with over two decades of experience at the Central Water Commission (CWC), currently serving as Director of Hydrology. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Kamla Nehru Institute of Technology (KNIT), Sultanpur, and a Master’s degree in Hydrology from IIT Roorkee. He is a recipient of the Merit Award of the Central Water Commission and the Vice Chancellor’s Gold Medal from Avadh University, recognizing his academic and professional excellence. Mr. Rai has led hydrological and hydrodynamic studies for more than 200 river valley projects, with core expertise in water availability assessment, design flood estimation, dam-break analysis, glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) studies, backwater analysis, reservoir sedimentation profiling, surge analysis, and reservoir and channel routing. His work is particularly focused on Himalayan catchments, where he has played a pivotal role in advancing flood-risk and disaster-mitigation studies. Mr. Rai has also made significant contributions to environmental flow estimation for proposed river valley projects in the Siang, Subansiri, and Himalayan Ganga sub-basins, employing hydraulic rating and habitat simulation techniques. He has extensive hands-on experience with advanced modeling tools such as HEC-HMS, HEC-GeoHMS, HEC-RAS, HEC-GeoRAS, HEC-RAS 2D, MIKE 11, ArcGIS, and ILWIS. A sought-after expert, he has delivered numerous lectures and training programs on hydrological, hydrodynamic, and environmental flow modeling for organizations including CWC, IIT Roorkee, NIH, NHPC, CBIP, NTPC, and various State Water Resources Departments. He has authored over 32 technical papers published in reputed journals and presented at national and international conferences. |
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Dr. Areendran Gopala Director, Tech for Conservation (IGCMC) | WWF-India. Dr. Areendran Gopala is the Director of Tech for Conservation (IGCMC) at WWF-India. A distinguished wildlife ecologist and geospatial expert, he brings over two decades of experience in advancing the application of Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and spatial analytics to address complex conservation and sustainability challenges across India. At Tech for Conservation—a specialised centre, Dr. Areendran provides strategic leadership to high-impact projects in landscape ecology, habitat suitability modelling, land-use and land-cover change analysis, and conservation planning. His work has played a pivotal role in mapping and monitoring critical biodiversity landscapes, including tiger reserves, elephant corridors, riverine ecosystems, and high-altitude Himalayan regions. His recent work emphasizes the use of advanced geospatial tools, AI, and satellite data to support early warning systems for forest fires and scalable monitoring of plastic pollution. He also serves as the Coordinator of the Environmental Information, Awareness, Capacity Building and Livelihood Programme (EIACP), (Erstwhile ENVIS) at WWF-India, supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), strengthening science-policy linkages through the dissemination of credible environmental data and geospatial insights. Dr. Areendran’s academic and professional journey includes international exposure and recognition for excellence in geospatial science. He has been a Visiting Researcher at the Conservation GIS Lab, Smithsonian Institution, Front Royal, Virginia, and a recipient of the Scholarship of Geospatial Excellence at ESRI, Redlands, California, as well as the Google AI for Social Good Scholarship, San Francisco, California—reflecting his contributions at the intersection of technology, conservation, and social impact. Prior to joining WWF-India, he served as a Senior Research Fellow at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and a Research Fellow at the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON). He holds a Ph.D. in Wildlife Science from the Wildlife Institute of India and is a Life Member of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing (ISRS). An accomplished researcher and mentor, Dr. Areendran has authored over 75 peer-reviewed scientific publications and actively contributes to capacity building by mentoring young professionals and students through initiatives such as the Green Skill Development Programme (GSDP). |
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Ms. Latha Raman Jaigopal Member, CDD India. Latha Raman is an Architect with over three decades of experience in sustainable and inclusive approaches in the built environment. She is the Co-founder of Inspiration Collective – a unique ‘nature-friendly design-build group’, who have grown as a team catering to a niche clientele who genuinely take the resolve to achieve higher standards of ecological sensitivity in the built environment. With a multidisciplinary in-house team and a network of national and international subject expert associates, Inspiration Collective has completed over 500 projects ranging from single houses and community housing to institutional campuses, high-end hospitality projects and townships, spread over a wide range of geographical locations. With a passion for a 'responsible holistic' approach to architecture and meticulousness as her forte, Latha guides the design interpretation, project management and technical teams of Inspiration. Latha is a Founding Partner and immediate Past President of CDD India, a pioneering organisation that addresses critical issues of water security, sanitation and environment. Headquartered in Bangalore, CDD India works closely with government authorities, urban and rural local bodies, multi-sectoral agencies, NGOs and corporates on integrated water management, water body rejuvenation, and solid and liquid waste management. Latha is also a Trustee of Sakhi Women Resource Centre, India – an NGO working towards empowering women with information and knowledge and creating opportunities for their leadership development in governance. Awards & Recognitions:
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Dr. Vikas Nimesh Dr. Vikas Nimesh is an Assistant Professor at the School of Public Policy, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. His research lies at the intersection of transport, energy, and urban systems, with a specific focus on green transportation, energy policy, and urban governance. Dr. Nimesh works to develop inclusive, data-driven solutions for India’s transition to clean mobility. Prior to joining IIT Delhi, he served as a Principal Research Associate at the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE). There, he led high-impact national projects regarding Electric Vehicle (EV) market transformation, the decarbonization of India’s cold chain infrastructure, and fleet electrification in Northeast India. His interdisciplinary approach bridges technical, economic, and institutional perspectives to support policymaking at the nexus of infrastructure and sustainability. Dr. Nimesh actively engages with key stakeholders including NITI Aayog, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and various state transport departments. His work is widely published in top-tier journals such as Energy Conversion and Management and Case Studies on Transport Policy, as well as in leading media outlets like The Hindu and The Economic Times. |
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Arjun Dutt Senior Programme Lead | CEEW Green Finance Centre. Arjun Dutt is a public policy professional dedicated to accelerating the flow of affordable finance toward sustainability in emerging economies. At the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), he leads the Centre for Green Finance, where he develops financial solutions to address capital bottlenecks. His work focuses on creating fit-for-purpose financial instruments to mitigate investment risks and providing data-driven inputs for sustainable finance regulation. Arjun’s expertise spans renewable energy, electric mobility, carbon markets, and international climate negotiations. He has served as a special invitee to the Taxonomy Working Group under the Ministry of Finance's Taskforce on Sustainable Finance and is a member of the IFSCA Expert Committee on Voluntary Carbon Markets. A prolific writer, his insights on green finance and strategic industrial policy have been featured in The Hindu, Financial Express, and the World Economic Forum’s Agenda Blog. Before his policy career, Arjun worked in corporate finance and equity research in the private sector. He holds an MBA from the Management Development Institute (MDI), Gurgaon, and an engineering degree from the Delhi College of Engineering. |
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Dhilon Subramanian Senior Program Manager – Energy, WRI India Dhilon Subramanian is a Senior Program Manager – Energy at WRI India, where he works on advancing building energy efficiency across multiple scales. As part of WRI India’s energy efficiency programs, he supports initiatives focused on improving building performance, promoting sustainable cooling solutions, and enabling policy and market interventions for energy efficiency. Prior to joining WRI India, Dhilon worked as an Energy Analyst at Environmental Design Solutions (EDS Global), contributing to government-led initiatives on energy retrofits, market transformation for energy efficiency, and the adoption of sustainable cooling technologies. His research experience includes work with the Malaviya National Institute of Technology, where he focused on adaptive thermal comfort and passive cooling strategies. He holds a Master’s degree in Energy Management from the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) and a B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering from Calicut University. He is also a certified IGBC Accredited Professional (AP) and LEED Green Associate (GA). |
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Sri. Nidhin Davis Nidhin Davis is a Program Manager at WRI India's Climate, Economics, and Finance Program, specializing in subnational climate action. Previously, he played a pivotal role in the ‘Carbon Neutral Meenangadi’ project in Kerala, a recognized model for locally-led climate action, and contributed to post-disaster recovery efforts following the 2018 floods with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). His policy experience includes tenures at GIZ India and PwC India, where he worked on EU-funded initiatives such as the Strategic Partnerships for the Implementation of the Paris Agreement (SPIPA) and the EU-India Clean Energy and Climate Partnership (CECP). Nidhin holds a Master’s in Environmental Planning from the School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi, and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering. Outside of work, he enjoys travel, photography, and sports. |
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Sri. Aditya Verghese Aditya Verghese serves as the Head of the Centre of Excellence for Public Finance at the Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS). In this role, he leads innovative initiatives to bridge the gap between global climate finance and the immediate needs of vulnerable communities. Aditya anchors India’s first-of-its-kind parametric insurance pilot for coastal communities in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. This pioneering project leverages pre-defined climate triggers (such as wind speed) to provide rapid, transparent financial payouts to cyclone-affected households, shifting the paradigm from reactive relief to proactive financial resilience. His work focuses on "blended finance" models—combining philanthropic, private, and public capital—to de-risk innovations in disaster management. A thought leader in urban resilience and climate economics, Aditya frequently writes on financing climate-resilient infrastructure and nature-based solutions. His commentary on utilizing green bonds, carbon credits, and insurance mechanisms for urban growth has been featured in leading platforms such as the Hindustan Times. |
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Sri. Arun Ramachandran Vice President, Impact & Innovation, Rang De. Arun Ramachandran is the Vice President of Impact & Innovation at Rang De, where he leads engagement with a nationwide network of impact partners to enable affordable, flexible credit for underserved communities. He holds an MBA from IIM Calcutta and a B.Tech in Electrical & Electronics from College of Engineering, Trivandrum, and brings 14+ years of experience in project management, social enterprise development, livelihoods, social impact financing, and consulting. Prior to Rang De, Arun served as CEO of Aadhimalai Producer Company, a sustainable agriculture social enterprise incubated by Keystone Foundation, and coordinated the UNDP Gol-GEF High Range Mountain Landscape Project with the Kerala government. He has also worked in HR leadership and operations, finance consulting for social enterprises, and state-level IT projects for people with disabilities. His work focuses on promoting sustainable community development, social innovation, and scalable impact. |
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Sri. Justin Mohan IFS Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Kerala Dr J. Justin Mohan is an Indian Forest Service officer with 28 years of service. Presently working as Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Kerala, he has earlier served as Secretary, National Biodiversity Authority, First Secretary in the Indian High Commission in Colombo, Director of Soil Conservation Dept., Ground Water Dept., Agrl Dept. and State Horticulture Mission., Project Director Kuttanad Project and as CCF High Range Circle, Kottayam and as DFO Munnar, Palakkad and Silent Valley Divisions. He has a Doctorate in Business Administration. |
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Dr. Pradeep Kumar T former Vice-Chancellor of the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) Dr. T. Pradeepkumar is an eminent horticulturist and academic leader who concluded his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) in 2025. With over three decades of experience, he is widely recognized for his contributions to vegetable science, academic administration, and the advancement of research and higher education in Kerala’s agricultural and fisheries sectors. He holds a PhD in Horticulture from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, and is a recipient of the Government of Kerala’s Krishi Vijnan Award (2015). As Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Pradeepkumar led key initiatives that strengthened KUFOS’s academic standing, including securing NAAC ‘A’ grade accreditation and launching an open-access research journal. Previously, as Director of Planning and Professor at Kerala Agricultural University, he played a significant role in state-level agricultural planning. A leading expert in vegetable science, he has developed eight high-yielding crop hybrids and authored over 85 research papers and 14 books. He is an elected Fellow of several national and international agricultural societies. |
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Prof. R. Ramakumar Member of the Kerala State Planning Board (KSPB). Prof. R. Ramakumar is a non-ministerial Member of the Kerala State Planning Board (KSPB), a role he has held since 2016, contributing to state-level policy formulation and development planning. He is also a Professor at the School of Development Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, and has been nominated as a Senate member to the search-cum-selection committee for the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calicut, reflecting his standing in academic governance and public policy. At TISS, Prof. Ramakumar has held several key academic leadership positions, including Dean of the School of Development Studies (2015–2018) and NABARD Chair Professor (2016–2021). His academic career includes roles as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor at TISS since 2006. He has also served as a Visiting Scholar at the Centre for Development Studies, Thiruvananthapuram, and as a Daniel Cosío Villegas Visiting Post-Doctoral Researcher at El Colegio de México, Mexico City, bringing strong national and international perspectives to development studies and policy research. |
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Dr. C. Bhaskaran Professor (Retd.) of the Department of Agricultural Extension at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani. Dr. C. Bhaskaran is a retired Professor of the Department of Agricultural Extension at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU). With a long-standing association with agricultural education and extension, he has contributed significantly to academic activities focused on farmer-centric knowledge dissemination and the documentation of indigenous technical knowledge. |
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Dr. Regi Jacob Thomas Head of CPCRI, Kayamkulam. Dr Regi Jacob Thomas assumed charge as Head of the ICAR–Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Regional Station, Kayamkulam, on Friday. He brings over 25 years of experience in research and development in the coconut sector, with particular expertise in breeding for resistance to coconut root (wilt) disease and in coconut germplasm characterisation. He played a key role in the release of four coconut varieties—Kalpasree, Kalparaksha, Kalpa Sankara, and Kalpa Vajra—which have contributed significantly to improving productivity and disease resistance. In recognition of his contributions, Mr. Thomas received the Best Scientific Team Research Award (2003–04) instituted by ICAR–CPCRI. |
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Dr. C. Thamban Scientist (Retd.) ICAR–CPCRI, Kasaragod. Dr. C. Thamban is a retired Principal Scientist in Agricultural Extension at the ICAR–Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasaragod. He specializes in technology transfer, farming systems, and group-based management approaches for coconut and arecanut farmers, with a strong focus on bridging research and field-level adoption. His work centers on the socioeconomic dimensions of agriculture, sustainability of farming systems, and the promotion of collective models such as Farmers Interest Groups to support small and marginal farmers. Dr. Thamban has been actively involved in field diagnostic visits, scientist–farmer interface programmes, and the organisation of training initiatives on pest and disease management, contributing significantly to capacity building and extension outreach in plantation crops. |
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Dr. Jiju P Alex Member, Kerala State Planning Board. Prof. (Dr.) Jiju P. Alex is a Member of the Kerala State Planning Board and a faculty member of the Kerala Agricultural University. He formerly served as Director of Extension of the University. He completed his graduate and postgraduate studies at Kerala Agricultural University and obtained his doctoral degree from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi. He began his professional career as an Agricultural Research Service Scientist with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and later joined the Kerala Agricultural University. He also served on deputation as Head of the Human Resource Development Division at the Information Kerala Mission. He possesses extensive experience in agriculture and rural development, democratic decentralisation, technology–society interface, innovation management, entrepreneurship development, human resource development, and e-governance. He has made significant contributions in building up technology transfer and development initiatives and to policy formulation relating to democratic decentralisation, and currently serves as Chairman of the State Resource Group on Decentralisation. He was also instrumental in designing e-governance programmes of local self-government institutions, particularly the plan monitoring system. He has led several research projects, published scholarly works in the above areas, guided PhD scholars, and participated in numerous national and international conferences. He is a Member of the Board of Management of the Kerala Bank, a Member of the Board of Trustees of the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, and a Member of the Boards of Studies of several universities. He has also served on the academic and policy-level committees of various institutions across the country. At the Kerala State Planning Board, he handles the portfolios of decentralisation, higher education and art and culture. |
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Dr. Ajayakumar Varma Scientist (retd.) National Centre for Earth Science Studies, Thiruvananthapuram Dr Varma had a long-term successful career with the National Centre for Earth Science Studies, Thiruvananthapuram. He has also served in several govt bodies and missions in various positions such as the Member Secretary of Kerala State Council for Science Technology & Environment and Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority; as the Executive Director of Suchitwa Mission, and as the Director of Clean Kerala Mission. His expertise is in Environmental management planning, Sustainable development and Geophysical explorations. He is acting as the Chair of the Academic Committee constituted for conducting the training programme in River Health Management. Guidelines for the three sub missions under Harithakeralam Mission was developed under the leadership of Dr. Varma who was the Technical Head of Harithakeralam Mission when the Mission was formed in the year 2017 |
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Sri. Binoy Tomy George Challenges in the Water Sector |
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Sri. Rajasekharan P.R Founder & Chief Executive Officer, CeroEd. Rajasekharan P. R. is a seasoned business leader and serial entrepreneur with over three decades of experience in management consulting and business leadership across operations, supply chain, ESG, sales, and service functions. He is the Founder and CEO of CeroEd, where he works at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and enterprise transformation, with a focus on building scalable, future-ready businesses. |
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Mr. Vivek Scientist & Head (In-charge), Ecology and Environment Research Group, CWRDM, Kozhikode. Vivek B. is a Scientist and Head (in-charge) of the Ecology and Environment Research Group at the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), Kozhikode. With a background in environmental engineering, his work focuses on water quality, pollution management, and the sustainable management of ecosystem services. He holds an M.Tech. in Environmental Engineering from Government Engineering College, Thrissur, and a B.Tech. in Civil Engineering from MA College of Engineering, Kothamangalam. Since joining CWRDM in 2015, Vivek has led and contributed to several national and international research projects spanning water and wastewater treatment, hydrological and water quality modeling, climate change adaptation, and ecosystem services of the Western Ghats. He serves as Principal Investigator for a NASA–SWOT Mission Early Adopter project, develops integrated river rejuvenation plans for major Kerala river basins, and leads DST-funded initiatives to improve water security in tribal regions. He has also conducted urban and industrial water management studies for institutions such as Infopark Kochi, Calicut International Airport, and the Kerala Cricket Association, and is an active member of professional bodies including IWA, IEI, IAH, and IWRS. |
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Dr. R. Harikumar Director, Energy Management Centre, Kerala. Dr. Harikumar Ramadas, the Director of the Energy Management Centre (EMC) in Kerala, has significant academic and professional credentials, including a Ph.D. in Energy Management. Under his leadership, EMC has implemented key initiatives such as the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) and the Perform-Achieve-Trade (PAT) scheme for energy-intensive industries. Dr. Harikumar also led the introduction of the first hydrogen vessel, the Energy Observer, to Kochi and initiated the Smart Energy program for students. His tenure saw EMC achieve numerous accolades and high rankings in energy efficiency indexes. His career spans over 34 years in energy efficiency and renewable energy. Where, he has held notable positions, including Director of the Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research & Technology (ANERT) and Honorary Founder General Secretary of the Society of Energy Engineers and Managers (SEEM). He has extensive experience working with various national and international organizations and has travelled widely for energy-related missions. His efforts have significantly contributed to Kerala’s advancements in renewable energy and energy conservation. |
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Dr. Radhakrishnan T Assistant Professor at the School of Digital Sciences, Kerala University of Digital Sciences. Dr Radhakrishnan T is an Assistant Professor at the School of Digital Sciences, Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (Digital University Kerala), Thiruvananthapuram. He heads the Centre for Geospatial Analytics at DUK. With over 28 years of experience, his academic background includes a Master’s in Geography, M.Tech in Remote Sensing, and a PhD from Cochin University of Science and Technology. His teaching and research span Geoinformatics, Remote Sensing, Geo-AI, Spatial Data Analytics, Web GIS, Spatial Statistics, and Geospatial Surveying. He was instrumental in the Geoinformatics curriculum development at IIITMK and DUK. Before joining the institute (formerly IIITMK) in 2006, he worked with IVL India Pvt. Ltd. and International Engineering Services. He is the Course Coordinator of the M.Sc. Geospatial Analytics programme and has served as Project Investigator for several geospatial projects funded by the Government of India and the Government of Kerala. Dr. Radhakrishnan has conducted 40+ training and capacity-building programmes and guided 100+ academic projects. He has several publications in journals and conferences. |
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Sri. Sajan P. John Chief Operating officer, Kochi Water Metro and General Manager (Water metro Operations), Kochi Metro Rail Ltd, Kochi, Kerala |
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Dr. Sushanth C.M Retired as Sr. Principal Scientist & Head, Land & Water Management Group, CWRDM, Kozhikode. Basically, a Civil Engineer from NIT- C with specialisation in Soil & Water Engineering from Cranfield University, UK. More than 35 years of experience in teaching, research and consultancy in the field of Water & Environmental Management. His experience spans 'Irrigation System Design, Irrigation System Evaluation, Environmental Management, Drainage, Integrated Water Resource Management,8 Water Budgeting, Watershed Planning and Evaluation'. He has experience in both the Government and Private sector in India, the UK, the Middle East and the Far East. Formerly with WS Atkins International Consultants (UK) & Shell Oil (Middle East). Implemented various research and consultancy projects funded by international agencies like USAID, World Bank, India-Canada Environmental Facility, OECF - Japan, Swiss Intercorp, European Union, AFRC Doha, etc. Member of various committees at the National and State levels on Water Management. Recipient of ODA Scholarship from the British Council for studies in the UK. |
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Sri. Sreejith Nedumpully Founder, ROPE (Resource Organization for Philanthropy and Environment). Sreejith Nedumpully is a social entrepreneur and environmental advocate with deep roots in the Haritha Keralam Mission, where he has played a significant role in advancing sustainable development and ecological conservation across Kerala. His work focuses on integrating traditional knowledge systems with contemporary sustainability practices, creating scalable and community-driven environmental solutions. As the founder of ROPE (Resource Organization for Philanthropy and Environment), Sreejith leads initiatives in waste management, the revival of traditional agricultural practices, and the promotion of eco-friendly livelihoods. He actively champions biodegradable alternatives to plastic, including bamboo-based products, and has spearheaded innovative projects such as “Paddy Art” and the conservation of indigenous rice varieties, strengthening cultural heritage alongside environmental resilience. Known for his collaborative leadership, Sreejith works closely with government agencies, academic institutions, and local communities to design and implement net-zero strategies, climate-resilient solutions, and circular economy models. By promoting upcycling, responsible resource management, and green entrepreneurship, he continues to empower rural economies while contributing meaningfully to Kerala’s long-term environmental sustainability. |
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Sri. Priyesh R Chief Engineer, Irrigation Design and Research Board (IDRB), Kerala. Priyesh R. is a senior official of the Kerala Irrigation Department, currently serving as Chief Engineer at the Irrigation Design and Research Board (IDRB), Vikas Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram. He has previously held key leadership roles including Director, IDRB, Director, Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation (KIIDC), and Joint Director of Dams, IDRB. With extensive experience in irrigation planning and infrastructure development, his technical expertise spans soil investigation, topographical surveys, and the design of irrigation and hydraulic structures. He has been closely involved in research-oriented and design-driven initiatives that support safe, resilient, and efficient water infrastructure across the state. Priyesh R. has also served as a resource person on dam safety and river basin issues, including expert engagements related to the Mullaperiyar Dam, contributing to informed public discourse and technical capacity building. |
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Vijayakumar Blathur Vijayakumar Blathur is a prominent Kerala-based science popularizer, freelance science journalist, and retired health department pharmacist, widely known for his contributions to science communication in the areas of biodiversity, insects, public health, and rational medicine use. Through his popular YouTube channel and contributions to the LUCA Science Portal, he makes complex scientific topics accessible to the public, often focusing on bugs, ecosystems, antibiotic resistance, lifestyle diseases, and health awareness. A long-time member of the Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad, he is also a volunteer with Swathanthra Malayalam Computing and Malayalam Wikipedia. He has served as a jury member of the Kerala State International Documentary & Short Film Festival and actively develops educational presentations on topics such as rabies, first aid, and organ donation. In recognition of his contributions to biodiversity awareness, an insect species, Sandracottus vijayakumari, was named in his honor. |
