PBR updation- Sacred grove study of Kurumathur Panchayath at Sir Syed College, Taliparamba
SIRSYEDCOLLEGE, TALIPARAMBA
BHOOMITHRASENA CLUB
STUDY REPORT ON SACRED GROVES OF KURUMATHUR PANCHAYATH
Introduction
Kerala isthe land ofgod, mesmerizing in itsbeauty, enviable in itsculture. This land is blessed with a wide and amazing variety of natural vegetation. With flora ranging fromIndian Rose wood and Cassia in Western Ghats to Bamboo and wild Cardamom in plains, Kerala has an immense cover of vegetation. An interesting feature in Kerala, which emphasizes that culture is inevitably interwoven with nature, is its sacred groves. The Kavu, sacred groves are famous land of thriving vegetation. The fear of violating religion and age old tradition have kept people away from these groves allowing them to flourish. These contributes a lot to conservation of ethnic biodiversity.There are about 1272 species of endemic angiosperms out of 3800 species occurring in Kerala, which is 33.5% of its flora. Out of5725 endemics inIndia, endemicsofKerala constitute 22.6%ofIndianendemics. The endemic flora in Kerala is mainly palaeotropic in composition, which is a part of the peninsular Indian endemic flora of Gondwanaland origin. Though there are common elements, the characteristic endemic flora of Kerala and Sri Lanka was developed from a common stock, but isolated due to temporal or geographical barriers. The hill top flora of Nilgiris, Palani and Cardamom hills in peninsular India and Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka show similarities, which indicate that they are derived from a common stock. Three 'hot spots' of endemic centres in Kerala are: Agasthyamala, Anamalai- high ranges and Silent Valley- Wayanad. Extinction or rarity of species may be due to environmental factors, ecological substitutes,biological factors,pathological causes and habitat destruction.The state of Kerala habitat destruction through conversion of forests into plantations and diversion of forests for non-forestry purpose such as hydel and irrigation projects took place to a great extent. As a result of the large area offorestsbecame fragmented into isolated patches. Each such isolated patches act like an ecological island.
In Kerala, Kannur can be considered as a district of Kerala that is rich in different plant vegetation. Being known as ‘District of Theyyam and Thira’ it’s obvious that there are numerous sacred groves in Kannur, Sacred groves are relic forest patches protected by local communities in reference of adeity. These are the representatives of climax vegetation and
exhibit the diversity of species such as trees, climbers, epiphytes, and other shade loving herbs. The groves are not only important sites for regional biodiversity but also provide vital ecosystem services to local people. One of the most important traditional uses of sacred groves was, it acted as a repository for various Ayurvedic medicines. Sacred groves can be used as an indicator for potential natural vegetation and are vital for well-being of society. Some of the famous sacred groves of Kannur are Chama Kavu, Kuttiatoor Kavu,Madayikavu etc. Madayippara is another biodiversity centre in Kannur, it is flat topped hillock locatedinMadayi, ofKannur district ofKerala. Payangaditownonthe northernbank of Kuppam river. The aquatic and semi aquatic plants forms extensive carpets of blue, Pink, White and yellow during monsoon season. It is typical of the Laterite foothills of Western Ghats. The area is notable for the presence of the rarest plants of the world such as Nymphoides krishankesara, Rotala malabarica, Lindernia madayiparense, Eriocaulon madayiparense, etc. Kannur district, located in the Indian state of Kerala, boasts a rich and diverse florallandscape that reflectsthe region'stropicalclimate and varied topography. This area, known for its lush greenery and abundant rainfall, supports a wide array of plant species, contributing to its vibrant floral diversity. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches along the eastern border of Kannur district, plays a significantrole in shaping the local flora. This mountain range is a hotspot for biodiversity, hosting numerous endemic and rare plant species.
Biodiversity is essential for sustaining ecosystems, human well-being, and sustainable development. However, increasing urbanization, deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss have put numerous species and ecosystems at risk. The People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) serves as a crucial initiative to document and preserve biodiversity by involving local communities. This report details the three-year continuous fieldwork undertaken by a five- member team for the preparation of the PBR, focusing on the biodiversity of Kurumathur Grama Panchayat. The BiologicalDiversity Act (2002) made mandatorythe development of PBR at local level to document the bio resources and related knowledge. Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) is created as per the biological diversity Act 2002 for this purpose.Localbodies inthestatesandunionterritoriesconstituteBMCs, whichareentrusted with the preparation of People’s biodiversity registers. One of the mandates of the biodiversity board is to prepare PBR of a particular area by involving local communities.
Theregistercontainsdetailedinformationonvariousspecies,theirhabitatsandtheir
cultural, medicinal and ecological significance, ensuring that traditional knowledge is preserved. PBR is not simply a register with names of species and their distribution in an area, but it is a database recording people’s knowledge and insight on the status, uses, history, current changes and reasons for these changes onthe resources oftheir locality. It encourages local people, often indigenous groups to contribute their deep-rooted knowledge about the biodiversity that they have lived alongside and passed down for generations. This will also provide information on the utilization patterns of biodiversity and its economic benefits. The registers form a baseline data for future management strategies required for sustainable management and utilization of biodiversity in a decentralized manner. The importance of PBR lies not only in its role in biodiversity conservation, but also in the empowerment of local communities. By documenting local biodiversity, PBR helps identify and preserve many species that may be overlooked in scientific studies and other. As mentioned earlier, it helps protect the rights of indigenous people over their traditional knowledge and promotes sustainable practices that align with local practices. This community-based approach promotes sustainable use of natural resources, ensuring that traditional practices are integrated with modern strategies. It supports the implementation of Biological Diversity Act 2002, which aims to promote access to bio-resources and ensure fair benefit sharing. The register is also a means of understanding the overlap of cultural and natural biodiversity
Theinitiativeaimedto systematicallydocument theflora, fauna, andecologicalchanges in the region while incorporating traditional knowledge and cultural practices related to biodiversity conservation. The team conducted extensive field studies, interviews, and participatorymapping activitiesto ensure comprehensive datacollection. The findingsofthis study not only contribute to scientific research but also support policy-making and conservation strategies at the local level.
A number of PBRs have been prepared in different parts of India through initiatives of NGOs and educational institutions by working with local communities and village councils. In Kerala, the State Biodiversity Board has prepared the People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBR) in 1034 localbodies i.e., 941 Grama Panchayats, 87 Municipalities and 6 Corporations. Agriculture is a significant sector in Kurumathur Grama Panchayat, with a majorityofthepopulationengagedinfarmingandrelatedactivities.Buttherearemany
challenges which are faced by farmers. Some of them include soil degradation, water scarcity, pest and disease.
Kurumathur grama panchayat is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and tradition being celebrated throughout the year. The panchayat is home to several historic temples and mosques, showcasing its diverse culture language.
IncollaborationwithKurumathur Panchayat,supportedbyKudumbasree,teachersand students of Sir Syed College have taken the initiative to prepare the PBR of Kurumathur. By involving the community in this initiative, the college empowers local people to become custodians of their natural heritage.
Objectives
Theprimaryobjectivesofthisfieldworkwere:
· Todocumentlocalbiodiversity,includingspeciesdiversity,habitatdetails,andecosystem significance.
· Torecordindigenousknowledgeandtraditionalpracticesrelatedtobiodiversity conservation.
· Toidentifyandassessthreatstobiodiversitywithinthestudyarea.
· Topromoteconservationawarenessand sustainableuseofbio-resources.
· To support local governance in biodiversity conservation through the preparation of an updated PBR.
StudyArea:KurumathurGrama Panchayat
Kurumathur GramaPanchayat, locatedinTaliparamba, Kannur district,Kerala, spans approximately 15.62 square kilometers and has a population of around 20,000. The local economyprimarilyreliesonagriculture, withmajorcropsincludingcoconut,rice, andspices. The region is characterized by a blend of natural forests, agricultural landscapes, and sacred groves that hold ecological, cultural, and spiritual significance. Kurumathur GramaPanchayat is a local government body in Taliparamba, Kannur district, Kerala, India. It is situated in the Taliparamba block of Kannur district. The panchayat coversan area of approximately15.62squarekilometersandhasapopulationofaround20,000people,
according to 2011 census. The economy of grama panchayat is primarily driven by agriculture withcropslike coconut,rice andspicesbeing major contributors.The panchayat isalso home to severalsmall-scale industries, including handloomand food processing units.
ThesacredgrovesofKurumathurareremnantsofancient forest patchespreserveddue to religious beliefs. These groves serve as biodiversity hotspots, hosting numerous rare and endemic species. However, anthropogenic pressures such as deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and pollution threaten their sustainability.
Methodology
The methodology followed a systematic process for data collection, whichincluded: We formed different groups under the leadership of the coordinator Dr.Sreeja.P and conducted several meeting with the BMC of Kurumathur panchayath. For the preparation of PBR we formed groups including different students and local people. Our work was mainly focused on the sacred groves. The preparation for the fieldwork involved training the teamon proper data collection techniques, species identification, use of various tools for recording data and the ethical handling of local knowledge. A list of data to be collected and survey questions was prepared beforehand by the students. This list included details about the selected site, ecosystemsurrounding the area, information on flora, related indigenous knowledge, threats faced by the ecosystem and area and lastly details of the person providing information. Instructions were given regarding conducting surveys, interviews and recording data. Data was recorded using notebooks, GPS devices, cameras for photography etc.
ProcedureofFieldwork:
Three different groves were visited on the same dayover a proper time schedule, with the team members conducting detailed surveys and collecting pre-determined data. The sites visited are Sree Muchilottu Kaavu, Sree Kundathil Puthiya Bhagavathi Kaavu and Melerimotta Kaavu, all located in different wards of the Kurumathur Panchayat. A combination of systematic surveys, interviews and observations were conducted. Local community members, villagers and elders were invited to participate in the surveys forsharingtheirknowledgeonthehistory,traditionsandculturalsignificanceofthe
sacred groves and folklore related to the area. Information on the flora and faunaincluding their culturalusesandmedicinalpropertieswerealsoprovidedbythelocalpeople.We conducted semi-structured interviews with elders to collect traditional knowledge about the sacred groves and their role in local conservation efforts. Photographs and videos of the sites, keylocations, surrounding ecosystems, species,threatsetc.weretakenfor future aid. Plant specimens were collected with permission for later identification. We recorded the local and scientific names, medicinal uses, and cultural significance of the plantsfound in each sacred grove.
· Formation of a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC): A committee was established at the Gram Panchayat level to oversee biodiversity documentation and conservation activities.
· Awareness programs and training sessions: Local communities were educated on the objectives and significance of biodiversity documentation.
· Review of existing literature and previous studies: Scientific papers, local knowledge archives, and past biodiversityrecordswere analyzed to establish baseline data.
· Field surveys and participatory rural appraisals (PRA): Direct observations, communityinterviews, and participatorymapping were employed for data collection.
· Flora and fauna documentation: Species identification, ecological role assessment, and medicinal uses were recorded with the help of experts and local knowledge holders.
· Data validation and analysis: Findings were cross-checked with scientific sources and local biodiversity experts.
· Continuous monitoring and updating: Regular field visits were conducted to track ecological changes and threats over time.
5. Fieldwork Details During the study, our team focused on the sacred groves of Kurumathur, which are ecologically and culturally significant. The fieldwork involved multiplesitevisits, species inventory, photographicdocumentation, and interviewswithlocal stakeholders.
FollowingarethemajorsacredgrovespresentintheKurumathurPanchayath.
i. SreeKundathilPuthiyaBhagavathiKaavu(WardNo.12)
· Historicalsignificance:Over400years old.
· Ecological features: Encompasses approximately 2 acres with a natural stream supporting aquatic life.
· Flora and fauna: Rich biodiversity recorded, including species like Zingiberaceae, Dalbergia sp, Costus speciosus, and various medicinal plants.
· Cultural importance: The site hosts Theyyam rituals annually, with deities like Pazhaya Bhagavathi and Puthiya Bhagavathi. The religious practices associated with this grove contribute to its conservation.
· Threats: Tree felling, plastic waste accumulation, and environmental stressindicators such as gall formations on leaves.
We conducted semi-structured interviews onthe localpeople that were present around the area duringour time of visit.Some information collected from thecommunity is listed below:
· With a history of around 400 years, this sacred grove holds significant spiritual, cultural and ecological value. The sacred grove extends over approximately 2 acres, incorporating a stream within its area. The area is owned by the Kundathil Sacred Grove Protection Committee.
· The deity of this sacred grove is the god,Bhagavathi.The ritual of theyyam is held annually in this grove, typically from January 15, marking the months of Dhanu towards Makaram inthe Malayalam calendar. The important theyyam forms hosted here are Pazhaya Bhagavathi, Puthiya Bhagavathi, Valiya Thamburaatti and Elankolam (young). Puthiya Bhagavathi is a new deity introduced during the time of a pandemic. This deity is considered to have originatedfromLordShiva
· The Sacred Grove and surrounding areas were reconstructed 12 years ago. Originally, the sacred grove was densely populated with a variety of trees, contributing to its rich biodiversity. However, during the reconstruction process, many of these trees were cut down to make space for specific purposes related to the grove's restoration and management.
· We observed a craftsman carving wood inside a small room within the sacred grove, his skilled hands shaping the wood with precision, carving intricate patterns on the wood.
The following is the list of species that we observed in the area, representing the biodiversity of the area:
NAMEOF THE SPECIES
FIGURE
Dalbergiahorrida
Meliotusphilippensis
Smilaxzeylanica
Pothosscandens
Bridelia retusa
Santalaumalbum
Pilea microphylla
Sonerilarheedii
Canscoradiffusa
Curculigoorchioides
Costusspeciosus
Other listed plants:Ichnocarpus frutescenceAdiantum,Impatiensminor,Justicia adhatoda, Mikania scandens,, caryota urensPiper nigra,Plumeria alba, Crinum asiaticum, Asystasia gangetica and Ficus sp.
Within the sacred grove, we observed that a stream flows through the lower region, surrounded by trees and other vegetation. A narrow pathway laid down towards the stream, surrounded bythick vegetationthat made it a bit difficult to move forward.
The following are the key threats identified during the study, which pose significant risks to the biodiversity and ecological integrity of the area:
Gall formations were observed on the leaves of several plants within the grove, indicating the presence of certain pests or environmental stress. Additionally, many trees, have been felled for construction purposes. Huge amount of plastic waste was also scattered throughout the grove.
ii. SreeMuchilottuKaavu(Ward No.8)
· Historicalsignificance:Approximately200yearsold.
· Ecological features:Spanning 1.5 acres,the groveiswell-maintainedby thelocal community.
· Flora and fauna: Presence of species such as Plumeria alb, Sida cordifolia, Vanda, and native medicinal plants.
· Culturalimportance:BiennialTheyyamperformances,featuringdeitieslike Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Puliyoor Kannan, and Vishnumoorthi.
· Threats:Minimal,duetoactiveconservation effortsby thelocal community.The grove is notably free from plastic waste and other pollutants.
· ThisSacredGrovesiteis inKurumathurPanchayat,WardNo.8
· Like the last site, a few locals were interviewed regarding their knowledge on the area and surroundings. The following data were recorded:
· The sacred grove, with a history spanning around 200 years, occupies an area of approximately 1.5 acres. This sacred grove is owned and maintained by a local community committee.
· ThemaindeityworshippedhereisMuchilottuBhagavathi.Neartothisdeity,the
Muthappan and Gulikan shrines are seen. Theyyamis performed here once every two years, typically in the month of January. The important theyyam forms are Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Kannangattu theyyam, Puliyoor Kannan, Narambil Bhagavathi, Puliyoor Kaali and Vishnumoorthi theyyam.
· We noted that the area was clean, with careful attention given to maintaining its environmental integrity. Notably, it was free from plastic waste, which contributed to the overall cleanliness and preservation of the natural surroundings.
· As part of our survey, we carefully observed the biodiversity within the area, documenting species that are unique to the region as well as those that are commonly found in the surrounding area.
· Thespeciesobservedintheareaarelisted below:
·
NAMEOFPLANT
IMAGE
Plumeriaalba
Sidacordifolia
Mimusops elenjii
Vanda
Zizyphus oenoplia
· Otherlistedplants:Tectoniagrandis,Terminaliacattappa,Cassiafistula,Aegle marmelos and Alstonia scholaris
iii. MelerimottaKaavu(Muyyam, WardNo. 12)
· Ecologicalfeatures:Locatedinaforestedregionwithdiverseplantspecies, including Sindhooram ( Mallotus philippensis) and Chrysophyllum cainito.
· Threats: Limited data collection due to accessibility challenges, but signs of habitat degradation were observed.
ThisSacredGroveisinMuyyam,WardNo.12
Thissacred grove issituated withina forestedregion, surrounded bya varietyofflora and fauna. This sacred grove is owned and maintained by the Munderi Illam (Munderi Illam vaka).We could only observe and record a limited number of species during the survey, but most recorded species are highly significant and diverse. The species recorded are:
NAMEOF THE SPECIES
FIGURE
Meliotusphilippensis
Chrysophyllumcainito
6. KeyFindingsandConservationChallenges
· Sacred groves serve as biodiversity reservoirs and play a crucialrole in preserving genetic diversity.
· Presence of rare and medicinal plant species highlights the ecological importance of these groves.
· Traditionalknowledgeandculturalpracticescontributesignificantlyto biodiversity conservation.
· Majorthreatsincludehabitatdestruction,pollution,andchangesinland-use patterns.
· Community participation is crucialfor sustainablemanagementand conservation of sacred groves.
7. Conclusion and Recommendations The three-year continuous fieldwork for PBR documentation in Kurumathur hasprovided crucialinsights into localbiodiversity. To ensure long-term conservation, we recommend:
· Strengtheningcommunityinvolvementthrougheducationandawarenessprograms.
· Implementingstricterconservationpoliciesforsacredgroves,includinglegalprotection measures.
· Regularmonitoringandupdatingofbiodiversityrecordstotrackecologicalchanges and emerging threats.
· Promoting sustainable agricultural and land-use practices to reduce pressure on natural habitats.
· Encouraging collaborations between academic institutions, local communities, and biodiversity boards for research and conservation initiatives.
By documenting and conserving biodiversity through the PBR initiative, we contribute to sustainable environmental management and cultural heritage preservation. Future efforts should focus on expanding biodiversity surveys, enhancing data accuracy, and developing long-term conservation strategies tailored to local ecological and socio-cultural contexts.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study has provided valuable insights into the biodiversity and ecological significance of the visited Sacred Groves. Through careful observation and data collection, wehave documented the speciespresent inthe area and identified several keyfactorsinfluencingthegrove’shealthandsustainability. Whilesomechallenges,such as limited species representation were encountered, the findings emphasize the need for continued conservation efforts. Moving forward, continuous monitoring and updating would be beneficialtogainabetter understanding ofthegrove’secologicaldynamicsand to support conservation practices
SIRSYEDCOLLEGE, TALIPARAMBA
BHHOMITHRASENA CLUB
STUDY REPORT ON SACRED GROVES OF KURUMATHUR PANCHAYATH
Introduction
Kerala isthe land ofgod, mesmerizing in itsbeauty, enviable in itsculture. This land is blessed with a wide and amazing variety of natural vegetation. With flora ranging fromIndian Rose wood and Cassia in Western Ghats to Bamboo and wild Cardamom in plains, Kerala has an immense cover of vegetation. An interesting feature in Kerala, which emphasizes that culture is inevitably interwoven with nature, is its sacred groves. The Kavu, sacred groves are famous land of thriving vegetation. The fear of violating religion and age old tradition have kept people away from these groves allowing them to flourish. These contributes a lot to conservation of ethnic biodiversity.There are about 1272 species of endemic angiosperms out of 3800 species occurring in Kerala, which is 33.5% of its flora. Out of5725 endemics inIndia, endemicsofKerala constitute 22.6%ofIndianendemics. The endemic flora in Kerala is mainly palaeotropic in composition, which is a part of the peninsular Indian endemic flora of Gondwanaland origin. Though there are common elements, the characteristic endemic flora of Kerala and Sri Lanka was developed from a common stock, but isolated due to temporal or geographical barriers. The hill top flora of Nilgiris, Palani and Cardamom hills in peninsular India and Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka show similarities, which indicate that they are derived from a common stock. Three 'hot spots' of endemic centres in Kerala are: Agasthyamala, Anamalai- high ranges and Silent Valley- Wayanad. Extinction or rarity of species may be due to environmental factors, ecological substitutes,biologicalfactors,pathologicalcausesand habitat destruction.ThestateofKerala habitat destruction through conversion of forests into plantations and diversion of forests for non-forestry purpose such as hydel and irrigation projects took place to a great extent. As a result ofthe largeareaofforestsbecame fragmented into isolatedpatches. Eachsuchisolated patches act like an ecological island.
In Kerala, Kannur can be considered as a district of Kerala that is rich in different plant vegetation. Being known as ‘District of Theyyam and Thira’ it’s obvious that there are numerous sacred groves in Kannur, Sacred groves are relic forest patches protected by local communitiesin referenceof adeity.Thesearetherepresentativesof climaxvegetation and
exhibit the diversity of species such as trees, climbers, epiphytes, and other shade loving herbs. The groves are not only important sites for regional biodiversity but also provide vital ecosystem services to local people. One of the most important traditional uses of sacred groves was, it acted as a repository for various Ayurvedic medicines. Sacred groves can be used as an indicator for potential natural vegetation and are vital for well-being of society. Some of the famous sacred groves of Kannur are Chama Kavu, Kuttiatoor Kavu,Madayikavu etc. Madayippara is another biodiversity centre in Kannur, it is flat topped hillock locatedinMadayi, ofKannur district ofKerala. Payangaditownonthe northernbank of Kuppam river. The aquatic and semi aquatic plants forms extensive carpets of blue, Pink, White and yellow during monsoon season. It is typical of the Laterite foothills of Western Ghats. The area is notable for the presence of the rarest plants of the world such as Nymphoides krishankesara, Rotala malabarica, Lindernia madayiparense, Eriocaulon madayiparense, etc. Kannur district, located in the Indian state of Kerala, boasts a rich and diverse florallandscape that reflectsthe region'stropicalclimate and varied topography. This area, known for its lush greenery and abundant rainfall, supports a wide array of plant species, contributing to its vibrant floral diversity. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches along the eastern border of Kannur district, plays a significantrole in shaping the local flora. This mountain range is a hotspot for biodiversity, hosting numerous endemic and rare plant species.
Biodiversity is essential for sustaining ecosystems, human well-being, and sustainable development. However, increasing urbanization, deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss have put numerous species and ecosystems at risk. The People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) serves as a crucial initiative to document and preserve biodiversity by involving local communities. This report details the three-year continuous fieldwork undertaken by a five- member team for the preparation of the PBR, focusing on the biodiversity of Kurumathur Grama Panchayat. The BiologicalDiversity Act (2002) made mandatorythe development of PBR at local level to document the bio resources and related knowledge. Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) is created as per the biological diversity Act 2002 for this purpose.Localbodies inthestatesandunionterritoriesconstituteBMCs, whichareentrusted with the preparation of People’s biodiversity registers. One of the mandates of the biodiversity board is to prepare PBR of a particular area by involving local communities.
Theregistercontainsdetailedinformationonvariousspecies,theirhabitatsandtheir
cultural, medicinal and ecological significance, ensuring that traditional knowledge is preserved. PBR is not simply a register with names of species and their distribution in an area, but it is a database recording people’s knowledge and insight on the status, uses, history, current changes and reasons for these changes onthe resources oftheir locality. It encourages local people, often indigenous groups to contribute their deep-rooted knowledge about the biodiversity that they have lived alongside and passed down for generations. This will also provide information on the utilization patterns of biodiversity and its economic benefits. The registers form a baseline data for future management strategies required for sustainable management and utilization of biodiversity in a decentralized manner. The importance of PBR lies not only in its role in biodiversity conservation, but also in the empowerment of local communities. By documenting local biodiversity, PBR helps identify and preserve many species that may be overlooked in scientific studies and other. As mentioned earlier, it helps protect the rights of indigenous people over their traditional knowledge and promotes sustainable practices that align with local practices. This community-based approach promotes sustainable use of natural resources, ensuring that traditional practices are integrated with modern strategies. It supports the implementation of Biological Diversity Act 2002, which aims to promote access to bio-resources and ensure fair benefit sharing. The register is also a means of understanding the overlap of cultural and natural biodiversity
Theinitiativeaimedto systematicallydocument theflora, fauna, andecologicalchanges in the region while incorporating traditional knowledge and cultural practices related to biodiversity conservation. The team conducted extensive field studies, interviews, and participatorymapping activitiesto ensure comprehensive datacollection. The findingsofthis study not only contribute to scientific research but also support policy-making and conservation strategies at the local level.
A number of PBRs have been prepared in different parts of India through initiatives of NGOs and educational institutions by working with local communities and village councils. In Kerala, the State Biodiversity Board has prepared the People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBR) in 1034 localbodies i.e., 941 Grama Panchayats, 87 Municipalities and 6 Corporations. Agriculture is a significant sector in Kurumathur Grama Panchayat, with a majorityofthepopulationengagedinfarmingandrelatedactivities.Buttherearemany
challenges which are faced by farmers. Some of them include soil degradation, water scarcity, pest and disease.
Kurumathur grama panchayat is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and tradition being celebrated throughout the year. The panchayat is home to several historic temples and mosques, showcasing its diverse culture language.
IncollaborationwithKurumathur Panchayat,supportedbyKudumbasree,teachersand students of Sir Syed College have taken the initiative to prepare the PBR of Kurumathur. By involving the community in this initiative, the college empowers local people to become custodians of their natural heritage.
Objectives
Theprimaryobjectivesofthisfieldworkwere:
· Todocumentlocalbiodiversity,includingspeciesdiversity,habitatdetails,andecosystem significance.
· Torecordindigenousknowledgeandtraditionalpracticesrelatedtobiodiversity conservation.
· Toidentifyandassessthreatstobiodiversitywithinthestudyarea.
· Topromoteconservationawarenessand sustainableuseofbio-resources.
· To support local governance in biodiversity conservation through the preparation of an updated PBR.
StudyArea:KurumathurGrama Panchayat
Kurumathur GramaPanchayat, locatedinTaliparamba, Kannur district,Kerala, spans approximately 15.62 square kilometers and has a population of around 20,000. The local economyprimarilyreliesonagriculture, withmajorcropsincludingcoconut,rice, andspices. The region is characterized by a blend of natural forests, agricultural landscapes, and sacred groves that hold ecological, cultural, and spiritual significance. Kurumathur GramaPanchayat is a local government body in Taliparamba, Kannur district, Kerala, India. It is situated in the Taliparamba block of Kannur district. The panchayat coversan area of approximately15.62squarekilometersandhasapopulationofaround20,000people,
according to 2011 census. The economy of grama panchayat is primarily driven by agriculture withcropslike coconut,rice andspicesbeing major contributors.The panchayat isalso home to severalsmall-scale industries, including handloomand food processing units.
ThesacredgrovesofKurumathurareremnantsofancient forest patchespreserveddue to religious beliefs. These groves serve as biodiversity hotspots, hosting numerous rare and endemic species. However, anthropogenic pressures such as deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and pollution threaten their sustainability.
Methodology
The methodology followed a systematic process for data collection, whichincluded: We formed different groups under the leadership of the coordinator Dr.Sreeja.P and conducted several meeting with the BMC of Kurumathur panchayath. For the preparation of PBR we formed groups including different students and local people. Our work was mainly focused on the sacred groves. The preparation for the fieldwork involved training the teamon proper data collection techniques, species identification, use of various tools for recording data and the ethical handling of local knowledge. A list of data to be collected and survey questions was prepared beforehand by the students. This list included details about the selected site, ecosystemsurrounding the area, information on flora, related indigenous knowledge, threats faced by the ecosystem and area and lastly details of the person providing information. Instructions were given regarding conducting surveys, interviews and recording data. Data was recorded using notebooks, GPS devices, cameras for photography etc.
ProcedureofFieldwork:
Three different groves were visited on the same dayover a proper time schedule, with the team members conducting detailed surveys and collecting pre-determined data. The sites visited are Sree Muchilottu Kaavu, Sree Kundathil Puthiya Bhagavathi Kaavu and Melerimotta Kaavu, all located in different wards of the Kurumathur Panchayat. A combination of systematic surveys, interviews and observations were conducted. Local community members, villagers and elders were invited to participate in the surveys forsharingtheirknowledgeonthehistory,traditionsandculturalsignificanceofthe
sacred groves and folklore related to the area. Information on the flora and faunaincluding their culturalusesandmedicinalpropertieswerealsoprovidedbythelocalpeople.We conducted semi-structured interviews with elders to collect traditional knowledge about the sacred groves and their role in local conservation efforts. Photographs and videos of the sites, keylocations, surrounding ecosystems, species,threatsetc.weretakenfor future aid. Plant specimens were collected with permission for later identification. We recorded the local and scientific names, medicinal uses, and cultural significance of the plantsfound in each sacred grove.
· Formation of a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC): A committee was established at the Gram Panchayat level to oversee biodiversity documentation and conservation activities.
· Awareness programs and training sessions: Local communities were educated on the objectives and significance of biodiversity documentation.
· Review of existing literature and previous studies: Scientific papers, local knowledge archives, and past biodiversityrecordswere analyzed to establish baseline data.
· Field surveys and participatory rural appraisals (PRA): Direct observations, communityinterviews, and participatorymapping were employed for data collection.
· Flora and fauna documentation: Species identification, ecological role assessment, and medicinal uses were recorded with the help of experts and local knowledge holders.
· Data validation and analysis: Findings were cross-checked with scientific sources and local biodiversity experts.
· Continuous monitoring and updating: Regular field visits were conducted to track ecological changes and threats over time.
5. Fieldwork Details During the study, our team focused on the sacred groves of Kurumathur, which are ecologically and culturally significant. The fieldwork involved multiplesitevisits, species inventory, photographicdocumentation, and interviewswithlocal stakeholders.
FollowingarethemajorsacredgrovespresentintheKurumathurPanchayath.
i. SreeKundathilPuthiyaBhagavathiKaavu(WardNo.12)
· Historicalsignificance:Over400years old.
· Ecological features: Encompasses approximately 2 acres with a natural stream supporting aquatic life.
· Flora and fauna: Rich biodiversity recorded, including species like Zingiberaceae, Dalbergia sp, Costus speciosus, and various medicinal plants.
· Cultural importance: The site hosts Theyyam rituals annually, with deities like Pazhaya Bhagavathi and Puthiya Bhagavathi. The religious practices associated with this grove contribute to its conservation.
· Threats: Tree felling, plastic waste accumulation, and environmental stressindicators such as gall formations on leaves.
We conducted semi-structured interviews onthe localpeople that were present around the area duringour time of visit.Some information collected from thecommunity is listed below:
· With a history of around 400 years, this sacred grove holds significant spiritual, cultural and ecological value. The sacred grove extends over approximately 2 acres, incorporating a stream within its area. The area is owned by the Kundathil Sacred Grove Protection Committee.
· The deity of this sacred grove is the god,Bhagavathi.The ritual of theyyam is held annually in this grove, typically from January 15, marking the months of Dhanu towards Makaram inthe Malayalam calendar. The important theyyam forms hosted here are Pazhaya Bhagavathi, Puthiya Bhagavathi, Valiya Thamburaatti and Elankolam (young). Puthiya Bhagavathi is a new deity introduced during the time of a pandemic. This deity is considered to have originatedfromLordShiva
· The Sacred Grove and surrounding areas were reconstructed 12 years ago. Originally, the sacred grove was densely populated with a variety of trees, contributing to its rich biodiversity. However, during the reconstruction process, many of these trees were cut down to make space for specific purposes related to the grove's restoration and management.
· We observed a craftsman carving wood inside a small room within the sacred grove, his skilled hands shaping the wood with precision, carving intricate patterns on the wood.
The following is the list of species that we observed in the area, representing the biodiversity of the area:
NAMEOF THE SPECIES
FIGURE
Dalbergiahorrida
Meliotusphilippensis
Smilaxzeylanica
Pothosscandens
Bridelia retusa
Santalaumalbum
Pilea microphylla
Sonerilarheedii
Canscoradiffusa
Curculigoorchioides
Costusspeciosus
Other listed plants:Ichnocarpus frutescenceAdiantum,Impatiensminor,Justicia adhatoda, Mikania scandens,, caryota urensPiper nigra,Plumeria alba, Crinum asiaticum, Asystasia gangetica and Ficus sp.
Within the sacred grove, we observed that a stream flows through the lower region, surrounded by trees and other vegetation. A narrow pathway laid down towards the stream, surrounded bythick vegetationthat made it a bit difficult to move forward.
The following are the key threats identified during the study, which pose significant risks to the biodiversity and ecological integrity of the area:
Gall formations were observed on the leaves of several plants within the grove, indicating the presence of certain pests or environmental stress. Additionally, many trees, have been felled for construction purposes. Huge amount of plastic waste was also scattered throughout the grove.
ii. SreeMuchilottuKaavu(Ward No.8)
· Historicalsignificance:Approximately200yearsold.
· Ecological features:Spanning 1.5 acres,the groveiswell-maintainedby thelocal community.
· Flora and fauna: Presence of species such as Plumeria alb, Sida cordifolia, Vanda, and native medicinal plants.
· Culturalimportance:BiennialTheyyamperformances,featuringdeitieslike Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Puliyoor Kannan, and Vishnumoorthi.
· Threats:Minimal,duetoactiveconservation effortsby thelocal community.The grove is notably free from plastic waste and other pollutants.
· ThisSacredGrovesiteis inKurumathurPanchayat,WardNo.8
· Like the last site, a few locals were interviewed regarding their knowledge on the area and surroundings. The following data were recorded:
· The sacred grove, with a history spanning around 200 years, occupies an area of approximately 1.5 acres. This sacred grove is owned and maintained by a local community committee.
· ThemaindeityworshippedhereisMuchilottuBhagavathi.Neartothisdeity,the
Muthappan and Gulikan shrines are seen. Theyyamis performed here once every two years, typically in the month of January. The important theyyam forms are Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Kannangattu theyyam, Puliyoor Kannan, Narambil Bhagavathi, Puliyoor Kaali and Vishnumoorthi theyyam.
· We noted that the area was clean, with careful attention given to maintaining its environmental integrity. Notably, it was free from plastic waste, which contributed to the overall cleanliness and preservation of the natural surroundings.
· As part of our survey, we carefully observed the biodiversity within the area, documenting species that are unique to the region as well as those that are commonly found in the surrounding area.
· Thespeciesobservedintheareaarelisted below:
·
NAMEOFPLANT
IMAGE
Plumeriaalba
Sidacordifolia
Mimusops elenjii
Vanda
Zizyphus oenoplia
· Otherlistedplants:Tectoniagrandis,Terminaliacattappa,Cassiafistula,Aegle marmelos and Alstonia scholaris
iii. MelerimottaKaavu(Muyyam, WardNo. 12)
· Ecologicalfeatures:Locatedinaforestedregionwithdiverseplantspecies, including Sindhooram ( Mallotus philippensis) and Chrysophyllum cainito.
· Threats: Limited data collection due to accessibility challenges, but signs of habitat degradation were observed.
ThisSacredGroveisinMuyyam,WardNo.12
Thissacred grove issituated withina forestedregion, surrounded bya varietyofflora and fauna. This sacred grove is owned and maintained by the Munderi Illam (Munderi Illam vaka).We could only observe and record a limited number of species during the survey, but most recorded species are highly significant and diverse. The species recorded are:
NAMEOF THE SPECIES
FIGURE
Meliotusphilippensis
Chrysophyllumcainito
6. KeyFindingsandConservationChallenges
· Sacred groves serve as biodiversity reservoirs and play a crucialrole in preserving genetic diversity.
· Presence of rare and medicinal plant species highlights the ecological importance of these groves.
· Traditionalknowledgeandculturalpracticescontributesignificantlyto biodiversity conservation.
· Majorthreatsincludehabitatdestruction,pollution,andchangesinland-use patterns.
· Community participation is crucialfor sustainablemanagementand conservation of sacred groves.
7. Conclusion and Recommendations The three-year continuous fieldwork for PBR documentation in Kurumathur hasprovided crucialinsights into localbiodiversity. To ensure long-term conservation, we recommend:
· Strengtheningcommunityinvolvementthrougheducationandawarenessprograms.
· Implementingstricterconservationpoliciesforsacredgroves,includinglegalprotection measures.
· Regularmonitoringandupdatingofbiodiversityrecordstotrackecologicalchanges and emerging threats.
· Promoting sustainable agricultural and land-use practices to reduce pressure on natural habitats.
· Encouraging collaborations between academic institutions, local communities, and biodiversity boards for research and conservation initiatives.
By documenting and conserving biodiversity through the PBR initiative, we contribute to sustainable environmental management and cultural heritage preservation. Future efforts should focus on expanding biodiversity surveys, enhancing data accuracy, and developing long-term conservation strategies tailored to local ecological and socio-cultural contexts.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this study has provided valuable insights into the biodiversity and ecological significance of the visited Sacred Groves. Through careful observation and data collection, wehave documented the speciespresent inthe area and identified several keyfactorsinfluencingthegrove’shealthandsustainability. Whilesomechallenges,such as limited species representation were encountered, the findings emphasize the need for continued conservation efforts. Moving forward, continuous monitoring and updating would be beneficialtogainabetter understanding ofthegrove’secologicaldynamicsand to support conservation practices
Report of the programme Download