The annual Environment Excellence Award, established in memory of G. Prabhakaran, a respected former correspondent for The Hindu who tragically passed away in 2023, was proudly presented at a ceremony this past Saturday (October 4, 2025). This heartfelt initiative by Prabhakaran’s family, in collaboration with Oisca International, seeks to honor individuals making significant contributions to environmental protection.
This year’s distinguished recipient was Maari, a dedicated forest watcher and conservationist at Silent Valley National Park. He graciously accepted the award from District Collector M.S. Madhavikutty and renowned writer Asha Menon, both of whom lauded his tireless efforts as the ‘sentinel of Silent Valley,’ protecting its precious ecosystem.
During the ceremony, Ms. Madhavikutty passionately called for greater recognition of Maari, highlighting his quiet yet profound dedication to conservation. Mr. Menon echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical importance of safeguarding the Silent Valley’s unique biodiversity for future generations.
Mr. Menon further recounted the historical significance of Silent Valley’s preservation, noting how former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s crucial decision to halt a controversial dam project there significantly restored her public image, which had been affected by the Emergency period. He asserted that her singular executive order to conserve Silent Valley had the power to ‘wash away her excesses,’ underscoring the monumental positive impact of environmental stewardship.
The event also featured Palakkad municipal chairperson Prameela Sasidharan, who paid tribute to G. Prabhakaran. A. Surendran, president of the Oisca Palakkad chapter, skillfully presided over the proceedings. Veteran economist P.A. Vasudevan provided a comprehensive introduction to Prabhakaran’s impactful journalistic career and his legacy.
A distinguished panel of speakers graced the occasion, including former Minister V.C. Kabeer, former CPI district secretary Suresh Raj, Silent Valley assistant wildlife warden V.S. Vishnu, Oisca director Suresh Babu, Oisca coordinator B. Jayarajan, Senior Journalists Forum secretary V.R. Rajmohan, and District Information Officer Priya Unnikrishnan, all sharing their insights and appreciation.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from P. Premnath, former Oisca South India secretary, and concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Vasanthi, G. Prabhakaran’s widow, expressing gratitude to all attendees and contributors.