Premdas, S., an environmental educator and conservation practitioner from the Palakkad Gap, brings over a decade of experience in biodiversity documentation, ecological restoration, and community engagement. His work bridges cultural heritage and ecological knowledge, fostering coexistence through education, storytelling and grassroots action.

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Prem’s project centres on reviving the black palmyrah palm, a keystone species that has local ecological and cultural relevance. There is evidence to show the black palmyrah sustains water recharge, soil stability, and biodiversity; while anchoring local crafts, livelihoods, food traditions, and cultural identity. Documenting these vital interconnections will reveal how human well-being and ecological resilience flourish through interdependence. His project focuses on mobilizing communities for seed collection and planting, as well as supporting active involvement of Panchayats through management committees, and forging networks among NGOs, colleges, schools and other institutions. This initiative drives coordinated restoration, grounded in local heritage. This approach reveals ecological revival and cultural heritage are intertwined, sparking stewardship across shared landscapes.

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