From Human Evolution to Artificial Intelligence: Kerala Celebrates Excellence in Science Writing
Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant boost to science communication and public understanding of scientific thought, the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) has announced the recipients of the Science Literature Awards 2024, recognising outstanding contributions to science writing in Malayalam. The awards honour authors and journalists whose works published in 2024 have successfully bridged science and society with clarity, depth and purpose.
Instituted to encourage scientific temper and critical thinking among the public, the awards are presented in four categories. Each award carries a cash prize of ₹50,000, along with a plaque and certificate, underscoring the state’s commitment to promoting science through regional language literature.
Popular Science Award: Tracing Humanity’s Evolution
The Science Book (Popular Science) award has been conferred on Dr. Biju Dharmapalan, Dean – Academic Affairs at Garden City University, Bengaluru, for his book “മനുഷ്യപരിണാമപഥം ഹോമോ സാപിയൻസിൽനിന്ന് ഹോമോ ഡിയൂസിലേക്ക്” (The Evolutionary Path of Humans: From Homo Sapiens to Homo Deus), published by the State Institute of Languages, Kerala.
A native of Vellayani in Thiruvananthapuram district, Dr. Dharmapalan’s work explores human evolution by seamlessly blending biology, history and futuristic thinking. The book has been widely appreciated for making complex scientific ideas accessible to general readers while provoking deeper reflection on humanity’s future.
In-depth Science Award: Climate, Crisis and Survival
The Science Book (In-depth Science) award goes to Dr. Gopakumar Cholayil for his book “ഉരുകും കാലം അതിതാപനവും അതിജീവനവും” (Melting Times: Global Warming and Survival), published by Current Books, Thrissur.
A former Scientific Officer at Kerala Agricultural University, Dr. Cholayil, a native of Mullakkara in Thrissur district, offers a rigorous and insightful examination of climate change, extreme heat and the challenges of survival. His work stands out for its scientific depth, evidence-based analysis and urgent relevance in the era of climate crisis.
Children’s Science Literature: Nature Through Young Eyes
In the Science Book (Children’s Literature) category, the award has been presented to Mr. Pradeep Orkkatteri for his book “പുല്ലരിമധുരം മുത്താറിമുതൽ മലഞ്ചാമവരെ”, published by Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishath.
Currently working with the State Institute of Encyclopedia Publications, Thiruvananthapuram, Mr. Orkkatteri hails from Orkkatteri in Vatakara. His book introduces children to the wonders of nature and science through engaging narratives, nurturing curiosity and environmental awareness at an early age.
Science Journalism Award: Demystifying Artificial Intelligence
The Science Journalism award has been conferred on Mr. Ashwin S, Senior Sub Editor at Malayala Manorama, Kottayam, for his widely read series on Artificial Intelligence.
A native of Oachira in Kollam district, Ashwin’s reporting has been lauded for its clarity, balance and relevance, helping readers understand the opportunities and challenges posed by AI in everyday life. His work exemplifies responsible science journalism that informs without sensationalism.
Awards to Be Presented at Kerala Science Congress
The awards will be formally presented by Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, during the 38th Kerala Science Congress, scheduled to be held on 1 February 2026 in Kochi. The ceremony is expected to bring together scientists, educators, policymakers and science communicators from across the state.
Announcing the awards, Prof. A. Sabu, Member Secretary of KSCSTE, noted that the honour is a recognition of “the vital role science writers and journalists play in shaping a rational, informed and progressive society.” He added that Malayalam science literature continues to be a powerful medium to inspire curiosity, awareness and social responsibility.
With this year’s awards, Kerala once again reaffirms its legacy of promoting scientific temper through inclusive, accessible and impactful communication—ensuring that science speaks to people in the language they live and dream in.
