Mananthavady: K Leneesh, a passionate conservator of indigenous paddy seed varieties, has won a national award at the South India Natural Farmers’ Summit held in Coimbatore.

The award was presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who honoured seven individuals from the four South Indian States and the Union Territory of Puducherry at the event. Leneesh was recognised for his sustained efforts in conserving indigenous paddy seeds, a contribution considered vital for the future of sustainable rice cultivation.

Calling it a rare moment in life, Leneesh said the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister, interact with him, and receive the award directly was a blessing.

Leneesh cultivates several indigenous paddy varieties and vegetables organically on a five-acre plot at Arattuthara near Mananthavady. He is also involved in conservation initiatives for 120 indigenous paddy seeds in Palakkad through the Akavayal Collective, and nearly 500 seed varieties under the Sarvatho Bhadram Trust in Thrissur.

He collaborates with several other indigenous paddy seed collectives across the State as well. A traditional paddy farmer, Leneesh hails from Panavalli in Thirunelli panchayat. He also runs an eco-shop venture named Samadhathu at Kannapuram in Kannur.

Leneesh is supported in his farming initiatives by his wife V C Ashitha. The couple’s son, Amarnath, is a UKG student.