About Us
The Centre for Biodiversity Conservation and Rural Development is an organisation deeply committed to preserving the unique ecosystems of Kerala and the Western Ghats. Founded with the singular purpose of conserving biodiversity, our NGO is dedicated to both protecting the environment and fostering a deep sense of ecological stewardship within the community. Our efforts focus on educating students and local communities about the importance of biodiversity and the need for ecosystem preservation. Through workshops, seminars, and educational programmes, we aim to instill a profound understanding of sustainable practices and the delicate balance of our natural world.We are actively involved in initiatives to protect sacred groves, marshlands, and ponds critical habitats that support diverse forms of life. Additionally, our projects include efforts to restore ecosystems and preserve threatened species by distributing plant saplings directly to students and households, encouraging hands-on involvement in conservation.To further our mission, we conduct examinations in schools and colleges, designed to enhance students’ knowledge of ecosystems, the impact of human activities on the environment, and the importance of sustainable choices. These initiatives are part of our broader goal to nurture a culture of environmental responsibility within the community.The inspiration behind our organisation stems from the lifetime work and dedication of Dr Kamaruddin Kunju, whose passion for environmental conservation continues to guide us.
Anooj S L
Co-Founder and Chairman
Co-founder and Chairman of CBCRD and TBCRI, is a passionate scientific researcher with over a decade of expertise in ethnobotany, biodiversity conservation, and oil palm research. He has experience in project implementation and evaluation, along with teaching as Assistant Professor at Iqbal College and research positions at KSCSTE-JNTBGRI and ICAR-Indian Institute of Oil Palm Research as a JRF and ICAR-SRF Fellow. Anooj holds an HM-FCI, MSc (Botany), M.Phil., and is pursuing a PhD in ethnobotany at the University of Kerala. Additionally, he has a postgraduate diploma in biodiversity conservation from the University of Kerala.
Ajinsha J S
Co-Founder and General secretary (Research & Advocacy)
Co-founder and General secretary of CBCRD and TBCRI, is a passionate scientific researcher with over a decade of expertise in ethnobotany, taxonomy and biodiversity conservation. He has experience in project implementation and evaluation, and research positions at KSCSTE-JNTBGRI. Ajinsha holds an Bsc(Botany), MSc (Botany), M.Phil., and is pursuing a PhD in ethnobotany at the University of Kerala.
Anoop Nath R
Co-Founder and Treasurer (Finance, Accounts and Engineering)
Co-founder of CBCRD and TBCRI, is in charge of finance, accounts, and engineering. As an engineer, entrepreneur, and product designer, his passion for nature and social work drives his contributions to the organisation. Combining technical expertise with a commitment to environmental and social causes, Anoop plays a crucial role in the strategic and operational success of CBCRD's initiatives.
Dr.Ajeesh Kumar B S
Health and Health Education
Chief Physiotherapist and Managing Director of Aswas Medi Group, is a dedicated healthcare professional with extensive expertise in physiotherapy. Leading one of the region’s prominent medical groups, Ajeesh combines his medical knowledge with leadership skills to ensure the highest standard of care for patients.
Grigar V
Information Technology
In charge of information technology at CBCRD, is the founder and managing director of AG Infotech. With a strong background in IT, he ensures that CBCRD's technological infrastructure supports its mission, enabling efficient project management and communication. His leadership in the tech space complements the organisation's conservation efforts.
Suresh Kumar P
Planning and Operation
Suresh Kumar. P is a scientific researcher with 8 years experience in the fields of taxonomy, biodiversity conservation and ethnobotany. He is skilled at conducting plant exploration including inventorization, documentation and plant identification. Seven years of research experience at KSCSTE-JNTBGRI. He has completed his MSc (Botany), M.Phil. (Advanced Botany), and is currently pursuing a PhD in Biodiversity conservation (KSCSTE-JNTBGRI) at the University of Kerala.
Subash BS
Library and Information Management
Subash BS is a scientific researcher with 8 years experience in the fields of taxonomy, biodiversity conservation and ethnobotany. He is skilled at conducting plant exploration including inventorization, documentation and plant identification. Seven years of research experience at KSCSTE-JNTBGRI. He has completed his MSc (Botany), M.Phil. (Advanced Botany), and is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Kerala.
Advisory Board Members
Dr.G Rajkumar
Principal Scientist and HoD JNTBGRI
More than 30 years of research experience in the field of angiosperm taxonomy and biodiversity conservation especially of endemic and threat category species. Principal Investigator as well as Co-Principal Investigator of 14 externally funded research projects. Published about 80 research papers in both national and international journals. Research Guide for the subject area of Botany in University of Kerala and the University of Calicut. Vice President of the Kerala chapter of the Society of Ethnobotanists, Lucknow.
Dr. M Navas
Senior Scientific Officer SMPB Poojappura
Dr. M. Navas has been serving as Senior Scientific Officer at the State Medicinal Plants Board, Kerala (AYUSH Department, Govt. of Kerala) since June 2021. With 28 years of research experience in Ethnobotany, Ethnomedicine, Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, Traditional Knowledge Documentation, Pharmacognosy, Plant Taxonomy, and Conservation Biology, he has received fellowships from the National Society of Ethnopharmacology (FNSE), Indian Association for Angiosperm Taxonomy (FIAAT), and the Society for Advancement of Biological Sciences, Bangalore (FSABS).