KALPETTA: Ministers OR Kelu and P Prasad have stepped in to support Padma Shri awardee Cheruvayal Raman, a heritage organic rice seed conservator from Wayanad after reports emerged about his dire financial condition. The intervention came after Kerala Kaumudi published a report titled 'Padma Shri won't help make ends meet', highlighting Raman’s struggles to make ends meet, along with an editorial urging government action.

At the Wayanad Seed Festival organized by the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation in Kalpetta, Minister OR Kelu directed the Agriculture and Tribal Welfare Departments to submit a proposal within two days to resolve Raman’s issues. Officials from various district departments also visited Cheruvayal Raman’s home in Kammana to listen to his concerns. Raman emphasized the need to sustain traditional farming and attract younger generations to agriculture.

Acharyasri Rajesh’s disciples and officials from the Kashyapa Veda Research Foundation visited his home the other day and provided Rs 11,000 in financial aid, promising to give the same amount every month.

Minister P Prasad told Kerala Kaumudi that Cheruvayal Raman’s living conditions will be brought to the attention of the government and that the Agriculture Department will provide him with all necessary farming benefits.