Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Mar 17: Dr R K Nair, popularly known as the ‘Green Hero of India,’ has been selected for the prestigious state-level rotary ‘Vandana Award 2026’ in recognition of his significant contributions to green forestation in India.

A native of Kasargod district in Kerala, Dr Nair is a pioneering environmentalist who has transformed thousands of acres of barren land into dense forests using the Japanese Miyawaki method. His work has spread across 12 states, playing a vital role in combating pollution and restoring biodiversity.

The award is jointly instituted by the Rotary Club of Mangalore Central and the Rotaract Club of Mangalore City. It will be conferred on Dr Nair in appreciation of his exemplary service in the field of environmental conservation. The award carries a citation, plaque, and memento.

The award ceremony will be held on Saturday, March 21, at 7:30 pm at Hotel Sea View in Mangaluru.

Shivananda Tagaduru, president of the Karnataka Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ), will attend as the chief guest and felicitate the awardee. The function will be presided over by Rtn Bhaskar Rai Katta, president of the Rotary Club of Mangalore Central.

Rtn PHF Prof Dr Chinnagiri Gowda, assistant governor (Zone II, RI District 3181), and Rtr Rtn Prajwal, district Rotaract Representative (RI District 3181), will be the guests of honour.

The Rotary and Rotaract clubs annually present the Vandana Award to individuals who have made remarkable contributions in fields such as sports, literature, industry, business, banking, music, medical science, engineering, art, culture, and community service as part of their vocational service initiatives.

The announcement was made at a press meet attended by Award Selection Committee Chairman Rtn PDG MD Dr Devdas Rai, Rotary Club president Rtn Bhaskar Rai Katta, Club secretary Rtn Vikas Kotian, Rotaract Club president Rtr Akshay B Rai, and Media Consultant Rtn M V Mallya.