Hi all, Here is our latest update.
The Hume Centre for Ecology continues to advance its mission at the intersection of climate action, ecosystem and wildlife conservation, sustainable food systems, and science education. Working closely with local communities in Wayanad and expanding into the broader Malabar region, our efforts focus on building climate resilience through science-based, participatory solutions in some of Kerala’s most vulnerable landscapes.
In 2024–25, with the continued support of the Rainmatter Foundation, we significantly scaled up our work to address the accelerating impacts of climate change. Our key initiatives included:
-
Expanding our micro-level weather forecasting systems and community-based weather monitoring to new panchayats across Wayanad and Malappuram, especially in landslide-prone and flood-affected zones.
-
Continuing community climate data collection, including the installation of automated weather stations, river flow units, and soil moisture sensors to strengthen early warning systems.
-
Establishing a comprehensive database on emerging climate-sensitive zoonotic diseases, laying the foundation for proactive health and environmental planning.
-
Building climate education programs for students, teachers, and the general public through initiatives like the Climate Cadets Program, Wipro Earthian workshops, and participatory seminars.
-
Strengthening panchayat engagement, enabling local governments to integrate climate resilience into development planning and disaster preparedness.
-
Launching platforms to monitor human-animal conflicts and generate geospatial data, supporting localized mitigation efforts in biodiversity-sensitive areas.
-
Initiating Munnorukkam, a geotechnical modeling project in Meppadi and Pozhuthana, to enhance local preparedness and early evacuation readiness in landslide zones.
These efforts are grounded in the belief that resilience must be rooted in communities, supported by real-time data, local leadership, and sustained public awareness. As the effects of climate change intensify, our partnership with Rainmatter continues to enable impactful, scalable action across Kerala’s vulnerable ecologies.
KEY OBJECTIVES
- To equip the local community to understand the local climate variations through scientific methods and to monitor climate at local level
- To make granular level rain forecast available for general public, farmers and local planners
- To equip the community and local panchayats to prepare themselves to reduce disaster risks
- To build a network of community climate volunteers to systematically monitor various climate indicators
- To monitor and build a database on zoonotic diseases in Wayanad for future planning of mitigation strategies in the context of climate change
- To build an online human animal conflict monitoring platform and generation of geospatial data on it.
In the upcoming phase, priority is to upscale the hyper local southwest monsoon rainfall forecasting to more sensitive areas and vulnerable communities. This involves developing mobile apps and an online portal for real-time data collection, synthesis, and dissemination, bolstering early warning systems. Focus extends to installation of river flow measurement units, automated weather stations, and soil temperature/moisture mechanisms. Climate education programs will be initiated for the public and children, with the ultimate goal of constructing a resilient community Climate Managers and Climate Cadets network.
Building Local Climate Resilience
The Climate Managers Program convened 50 participants from diverse sectors in Wayanad, including the Biodiversity Management Committee, civil defense officers, and farmers. Experts led sessions on climate change, disaster management, and the role of communities in resilience-building. Discussions highlighted the need for Climate Managers at the panchayat level to drive local climate action and sustainability.
Mundakkai Landslide: A Stark Climate Warning
The July 30th landslide in Mundakkai, Wayanad, claimed 391 lives after unprecedented rainfall, highlighting the region’s extreme climate vulnerability. Despite early alerts, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for stronger preparedness and community-based resilience efforts.
State Institute of Land and Disaster Management Visits Hume Centre
On August 19, 2024, Hume Centre hosted teachers and students from the State Institute of Land and Disaster Management, Kottayam. The visit provided an opportunity to share insights on our Climate Action Program and related initiatives, fostering knowledge exchange on disaster resilience and environmental sustainability.
Distinguished Visit: Dr. Shakil Ahammed at Hume Centre
On August 20, 2024, Hume Centre was honored to host Dr. Shakil Ahammed, Additional Chief Secretary of Meghalaya, during his visit to Wayanad to support landslide victims. He engaged with our team to learn about disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and our landslide susceptibility study, reinforcing the importance of proactive risk mitigation.
Science Session Highlights Climate Risks in Wayanad
On August 22, 2024, the Hume Centre, STERC, and NSS Meenangadi Polytechnic College hosted a science class on ‘Wayanad and Natural Disasters.’ Mr. C.K. Vishnudas led the session, addressing climate change impacts, cloud-induced landslides, and the need for scientific solutions to protect vulnerable communities.
Hume Centre Shares Insights at CSE Workshop on Climate and Agriculture
From August 21–23, 2024, Ms. Renjini A.R Climate Lead from the Hume Centre participated in CSE’s workshop at AAETI, Rajasthan, leading a session on ‘Weather-based Agro-advisories.’ She presented Hume’s community weather monitoring model in Wayanad, emphasizing its role in supporting climate-resilient farming.
SDMA Member Secretary Visits Hume Centre
Dr. Sekhar Kuriakose, Member Secretary of the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), visited Hume Centre to explore our community weather monitoring system and engage with our Climate Action team. His visit underscored the importance of localized climate resilience efforts, and we look forward to future collaborations in strengthening disaster preparedness and community resilience.
Science Seminar: “Wayanad After Mundakkai – Lessons and Strategies”
The science seminar “Wayanad After Mundakkai – Lessons and Strategies” held on September 9, 2024, at MSSRF, brought together leading experts, scientists, and community leaders to address the growing disaster risks in Wayanad. Key discussions emphasized the need for community-led disaster warning systems, terrain-based risk assessments, and integration of indigenous knowledge with scientific research. Experts highlighted how unscientific land use and climate-induced rainfall changes are exacerbating landslide vulnerabilities. The seminar concluded with a strong call for legal reforms, accurate mapping, and sustainable, community-driven strategies for resilience.
Discussion on ‘Wayanad and Natural Disasters’
The climate awareness seminar held on September 11, 2024, at DIET Hall, Sulthan Bathery, brought together educators, activists, and community leaders to advance climate literacy in Wayanad. Organized by the Hume Centre, STERC, and KSSP, the event highlighted the urgency of public awareness on climate change and the importance of adopting nature-friendly lifestyles. Speakers emphasized community resilience through informed action and local engagement. The seminar concluded with a renewed commitment to sustainable living and climate education in the region.
COMMUNITY BASED WEATHER MONITORING BEYOND WAYANAD…
In Pothukallu Panchayat, Malappuram, a community-based weather monitoring system has been launched to strengthen resilience in the vulnerable Camel’s Hump Mountains and Chaliyar River Basin. With support from local residents, the Panchayat, KSSP, schools, activists, and Keystone Foundation, the initiative equips the community with rain gauges and knowledge to track weather in real time. Triggered by past disasters like the 2019 Kavalappara landslide, this effort fosters climate awareness and grassroots preparedness. The outcome is a growing local weather network aimed at early warnings and long-term climate resilience.
Hume Centre Hosts Climate Managers Meeting on Heat and Disaster Preparedness
The Climate Managers Meeting brought together panchayat leaders and BMC members to discuss rising heat events and disaster risks. Key speakers emphasized the need for community-based planning, a Heat Action Plan, and proactive climate adaptation to address challenges like the Mundakkai landslide and human-wildlife conflict.
Community Engagement and Early Warning Initiatives at Vilangad Landslide Site
The Hume Centre team visited the Vilangad landslide site to assess its impact and engage with local communities for future disaster preparedness. Discussions with panchayat members, local leaders, and stakeholders highlighted the challenges faced during and after landslides. A survey in the region documented 71 landslides, including 11 in the reserved forest, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and early warning systems. The team also met the Emergency Leadership Team, including Trauma Care Unit members, who shared their experiences in disaster response. As an initial step in community weather monitoring, two rain gauges were distributed to the community.
Seminar on Climate Resilience at Wayanad Literature Festival
Hume Centre organized an academic seminar titled “Climate Change and Wayanad: Reducing Risks of Recurring Natural Disasters” as part of the Wayanad Literature Festival. Chaired by Dr. Manoj P. Samuel, the seminar featured expert presentations by Dr. C.P. Rajendran, Dr. A. Abhilash, Mr. C.K. Vishnudas, and Ms. Renjini. Discussions covered landslide risks, monsoonal shifts, community weather monitoring, and the importance of hyperlocal forecasts. The seminar emphasized the need for public awareness, advanced rainfall monitoring, predictive warning systems, and scientific approaches to disaster
Hume Centre at Seed Fest 2025
Hume Centre participated in the Seed Fest organized by Fair Trade Alliance Kerala from January 22–27, 2025, in Mananthavady. Our Director, Mr. Vishnudas, contributed to a panel on Climate Change and Resilience, while Dr. Suma participated in the breakout session Who Will Own These Farms Tomorrow? The Centre also showcased its climate action initiatives through an interactive stall, engaging the public in discussions on rain gauge usage, thermometers, and community-based weather monitoring efforts in Kerala.
### Munnorukkam: Strengthening Community Resilience
Following the 2024 landslide, Hume Centre has launched Munnorukkam, a geotechnical modeling initiative in Meppadi and Pozhuthana panchayats, in collaboration with STERC and NABARD. This project aims to enhance rain prediction by installing a denser network of weather instruments and engaging the community in early evacuation preparedness. Implemented in partnership with the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), local panchayats, and residents, the initiative is a proactive step toward disaster resilience. A Project Monitoring Committee Strengthening Meeting was held at Meppadi Grama Panchayat Hall, with key stakeholders, including the Panchayat President, ward members, and representatives from Hume Centre and STERC, reaffirming their commitment to the project’s success.
Munnorukkam" Project Launched for Community-Based Disaster Preparedness
The “Munnorukkam” project, a micro-level participatory disaster management initiative, was officially launched under the joint leadership of Pozhuthana and Meppadi grama panchayats with NABARD support. Inaugurated by NABARD CGM Baiju N Kurup, the project was hailed as a national model for integrating scientific disaster preparedness with grassroots participation. Key leaders, including Wayanad District Panchayat President Shamshad Marakkar and Hume Centre Director C.K. Vishnudas, emphasized collaborative, science-based approaches to strengthen local resilience.
Science for Community Resilience: Climate Managers Program on Heatwave
On National Science Day 2025, the Hume Centre and Pulpally Grama Panchayat held a Climate Managers meeting to address rising heatwaves and water scarcity. With paddy cultivation dropping by half, the community emphasized increasing tree cover, protecting water bodies, and building check dams to enhance climate resilience.
Kalavastha: Karuthenda Karyangal – Addressing Climate Challenges
Hume Centre participated in the KSSP-organized seminar Kalavastha: Karuthenda Karyangal on March 5, 2025, at Sultan Bathery, focusing on climate change and disaster resilience. Dr. Suma spoke on landslides in the Western Ghats, while Director C.K. Vishnudas highlighted the importance of policy reforms in disaster rehabilitation and long-term resilience.
Safeguarding Chembra and Kurichyarmala: A Scientific Approach to Climate Resilience
As part of the Community-Based Disaster Management Project, Hume Centre facilitated a scientific assessment in Chembra and Kurichyarmala with experts Dr. C.P. Rajendran and Dr. K.V. Thomas. The study recommended real-time monitoring, afforestation, and sustainable land use, while emphasizing community involvement to build long-term climate resilience.
Hume Centre Joins the District Disaster Management Core Group
We are proud to share that Hume Centre has been selected as a member of the District Disaster Management Core Group. The district administration has begun actively seeking Hume’s expert opinions on floods, landslides, and disaster preparedness — a significant recognition of the climate resilience work Hume initiated over the years.
This marks an important milestone for Hume. The Centre now takes part in daily coordination meetings alongside the District Collector and other key departments, working together to strengthen disaster response and community preparedness in the region.
Vulture Conservation Awareness Program
On International Vulture Awareness Day 2024, Hume Centre, in collaboration with Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and CVAS Pookode NSS unit, organized a program highlighting vultures’ ecological role and their link to apex predators. Experts emphasized conserving large carnivores and savanna habitats, with 65 participants including vets, forest staff, and students.
Wayanad Sky Island Bird Survey 2025
The Wayanad Sky Island Bird Survey commenced today, covering 15 mountain peaks in Wayanad with the participation of 55 birders. Jointly organized by the Hume Centre, North and South Wayanad Forest Divisions, and Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, this annual survey focuses on the conservation of high-elevation avian species unique to the region’s sky islands. By documenting bird diversity in these isolated mountain habitats, the initiative plays a crucial role in long-term avian conservation and ecological monitoring.
Rare and Endangered Birds Sighted in Wayanad Sky Island Bird Survey 2025
The Wayanad Sky Island Bird Survey (Jan 17–19, 2025), led by the Hume Centre and Forest Department, recorded 144 species, including rare birds like the Hume’s Warbler and critically endangered Red-headed Vulture. The sighting of Banasura Laughing Thrush above 1600m highlights the urgent need to protect Wayanad’s fragile high-altitude habitats.
Bird Walk in Honor of Dr. Salim Ali
In celebration of Dr. Salim Ali’s life and legacy, Hume Centre organized a ‘Bird Walk’ at Nellarachal, part of the Karapuzha Reservoir, which hosts a diverse array of wetland birds. The event was attended by 28 students and 3 teachers from GVHSS Kalpetta and SKMJ HSS Kalpetta. Participants observed around 15 species of land and water birds, including migratory species. The experience aimed to inspire a passion for birdwatching, encouraging these young minds to become the future birders of Wayanad.
### Birdwatching at Nellarachal: A Haven for Avian Enthusiasts
Nellarachal, nestled along the Karapuzha Reservoir, proved to be a haven for birdwatchers during our recent camp, offering sightings of 25 bird species, including the Indian Spot-billed Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Wood Sandpiper, Lesser Whistling Duck, and River Tern. The event saw the enthusiastic participation of 23 birders, including school students from Wayanad and MA Environmental Studies interns from Malayalam University, Tirur. Despite the challenges of reaching this remote yet rewarding location, the experience was truly enriching, fostering a deeper connection with nature and inspiring curiosity and appreciation for avian diversity among young participants.
Wayanad Water Bird Count 2025
Organized by Hume Centre and the Social Forestry Division, the 2025 Wayanad Water Bird Count recorded 128 species, including 48 wetland birds, across 10 sites. Despite a decline due to drying wetlands, the increased sighting of the Lesser Whistling Teal brings hope for conservation. With 55 participants, the annual count remains vital for wetland ecosystem monitoring.
Exploring Wayanad’s Ecological Tapestry
Hume Centre participated in Nature’s Kaleidoscope: The Diverse Ecosystems of Wayanad, a one-day seminar at Government College Mananthavady. Sessions by experts covered climate change, biodiversity threats, and human-animal relations, fostering awareness and insightful discussions on Wayanad’s environmental challenges.
Strengthening Barriers, Strengthening Coexistence
Wayanad has long grappled with human-elephant conflict despite various mitigation efforts. To enhance the effectiveness of existing barriers, Hume Centre, The Shola Trust, Kerala Forest Department, and local communities launched a community-based monitoring system.
On International Day of Forests, Kottiyoor community members and forest officials came together to maintain solar fences, upgraded with new solar systems, batteries, and energizers provided by Tata Motors. The initiative was inaugurated by Mr. Sooraj, ADCF, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and attended by key stakeholders.
This collaborative effort marks a step forward in fostering peaceful human-elephant coexistence.
Climate Cadets & Wipro Earthian Teacher Training Workshop
On August 17, 2024, Hume Centre hosted a one-day Climate Cadets and Wipro Earthian Teacher Training workshop at Trident Arcade, Kalpetta, with 170 students and teachers from 16 schools in Wayanad. Ms. Anju Paul, Climate Cadet Coordinator, led a session on Climate Change and Wayanad, explaining weather-climate differences and their impacts. Ms. Dyuthi, Wipro Earthian Sustainability Educator, introduced the Biodiversity, Water, and Waste booklets. Students from the previous Earthian program were awarded certificates for their contributions. The workshop received an enthusiastic response, reinforcing the commitment to climate and environmental education.
Gifted Children Program – Experiential Learning at Hume Centre
As part of the Gifted Children Program by the Education Department, 35 exceptionally talented secondary school students from Wayanad visited Hume Centre for a one-day experiential learning session. In the morning, Dr. Suma and Mr. Vishnu introduced them to key ecological concepts, including ecosystems, biodiversity, forest types, food webs, and food pyramids. Students explored their surroundings using all five senses to understand biotic and abiotic connections, later presenting creative interpretations of their observations. In the afternoon, Mr. Praveen guided them through microscopy, demonstrating stem cell observation, while Mr. Saneesh conducted hands-on experiments on buoyancy and optics in Hume’s Curious Zone. The program, attended by Mr. Prasad, District Coordinator, fostered scientific curiosity and ecological awareness among the participants.
Tomo School, an initiative by the Hume Centre, is a creative learning program for children up to 13 years, launched in Kalpetta on April 24, 2024. The 30-day summer program titled “Exploring the Body and Its Nature” integrates art, rhythm, science, and theatre to foster imagination, sustainability, and inclusion. Children explored tribal folklore with writer Bindu, trekked the Manikkunnu Hills to learn about geography and climate, and celebrated Agriculture Day by planting seeds and writing songs compiled into Vithu Thoni. Emphasizing group learning, outdoor exploration, and intercultural understanding, the school encourages children to learn from nature and each other. Learning at Tomo School is playful, participatory, and deeply rooted in ecological awareness.
Celebrating Biodiversity and Protecting Sacred Groves
On International Biodiversity Day 2024, the Kavinu Kavalay program at Kundaramoola Kav brought together communities, researchers, and students to celebrate sacred groves. Organized by local BMCs with support from Kerala Biodiversity Board, the event emphasized the ecological and cultural value of kavus and launched studies on invasive species and carbon absorption
Hume Centre Marks World Environment Day 2024 with Youth-Led Restoration Initiatives
On World Environment Day 2024, the Hume Centre joined hands with students, teachers, and partner organizations to promote the theme “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration.” Through sapling planting, awareness art, and educational sessions led by Mr. Vishnudas and Dr. Suma, the Centre emphasized the urgent need for land restoration and youth-led environmental action.
### Exploring Genetics: Outreach Program with Dr. Arya Sidharthan
Dr. Arya Sidharthan joined the Hume Centre for an engaging outreach program aimed at raising awareness about DNA, genetic diseases, and debunking myths surrounding genetic testing. Students from SKMJ School and tribal promoters from various regions of Wayanad actively participated, gaining hands-on experience in extracting DNA from saliva samples using lysis buffer and isopropanol. The program was organized by the CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology (IGIB), Delhi, a premier research institute under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India, as part of the Jigyasa Project, fostering scientific curiosity and learning.
Sculpting Creativity: Clay Workshop at Tomo School
In a three-day sculpture workshop led by artist Mr. Roshan Sahi, children at Tomo School explored form, rhythm, and expression through clay. Starting with silhouette tracing and charcoal work, they progressed to sculpting human figures and experimenting with natural textures using frottage. The workshop offered a rich, hands-on experience that connected body, performance, and nature through art.
Climate Ambassadors Conclave: A Milestone in Sustainability Education
The Climate Ambassadors Conclave, held on August 27, 2024, at GHSS Karaparamba, marked a year of impactful engagement by Hume Centre with Climate Ambassadors from PRISM schools in Calicut. Students showcased their learnings through research projects on water quality, biodiversity conservation, and bird diversity, alongside performances highlighting ocean plastic pollution and sacred grove conservation. Drawing from field visits and expert interactions, these projects reflected their commitment to environmental stewardship. The event featured keynote speeches from Mr. C K Vishnudas, Director of Hume Centre, and Ms. S Jayasree, Chairperson of the Health Standing Committee, alongside school principals and community leaders. The conclave celebrated the Climate Ambassadors’ journey, reinforcing their role as future sustainability leaders.
Kadhayanam: A Magical Storytelling Experience
Team Ala and Hume Centre brought Malayalam textbook characters to life at GHSS Meppadi through Kadhayanam, a unique storytelling event. Over 600 students from local schools experienced immersive performances, giant puppets, and Kamishibai storytelling. Classic literary figures from Vaikom Muhammed Basheer and M. Mukundan’s works captivated the audience, along with engaging folk songs and musical performances. In the evening, puppets Madan and Marutha paraded through Thrikkaipetta, spreading the joy of storytelling. Special thanks to Manu Jose, the Ala Centre team, and the Thrikkaipetta community for making this event a grand success!
