Dr. Stephen Devanesan stands as a remarkable figure in the field of Apiculture, with a distinguished career spanning over several decades. Graduating from Kerala Agricultural University in 1977, he embarked on a journey of continuous learning and pioneering research.

His academic journey continued with an M.Sc. (Ag.) specializing in Agricultural Entomology in 1980, followed by a Ph.D. in 1998 from the same institution. Dr. Devanesan’s commitment to his field is evident through his extensive service record from August 1, 1979, to March 31, 2016, within the Kerala Agricultural University, where he ascended from the position of Junior Assistant Professor to the esteemed role of Dean, Faculty of Agriculture.

Throughout his career, Dr. Devanesan held various key positions, including Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Principal Scientist of the All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Honey Bees and Pollinators, and Associate Director of Research at KAU. His dedication and expertise were pivotal in transforming the apiculture landscape in Kerala.

One of his most notable achievements was his role in reviving the beekeeping industry following the devastation caused by the Thai Sac Brood Virus disease. Dr. Devanesan spearheaded the development of a TSBV-tolerant strain of Apis cerana indica, which significantly contributed to restoring the beekeeping sector. Moreover, he played a crucial role in standardizing various value-added products derived from honey, thereby tripling the income of beekeepers.

His efforts extended beyond research, as he actively raised awareness about the indispensable role of honey bees in pollination, yield enhancement, and food security. Additionally, Dr. Devanesan’s initiatives aimed at empowering rural women led to the popularization of Meliponiculture in Kerala, providing a means to strengthen their financial and nutritional security.

Dr. Devanesan’s contributions were recognized nationally and internationally, earning accolades from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in 2013. His endeavors also secured significant funding for the establishment of a Quality Control Laboratory at AICRP, College of Agriculture Vellayani, under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) in 2014.

Beyond his research and administrative roles, Dr. Devanesan was a prolific author and communicator. He authored numerous books, research papers, book chapters, and popular articles, in addition to hosting radio and television programs aimed at disseminating Good Apicultural Practices (GAP). His vision for value addition in the honey sector served as a catalyst for budding entrepreneurs, inspiring innovation and growth.

Dr. Stephen Devanesan’s legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of Kerala, as his scientific contributions earned him invitations to various international conferences, showcasing the impact of his work on a global scale. His unwavering dedication, coupled with his visionary leadership, has left an indelible mark on the field of apiculture, transforming it into a thriving enterprise and empowering countless individuals along the way.

Dr. Stephen Devanesan’s achievements in the fields of apiculture science, administration, management, and academics are truly impressive. Here’s a summary of the awards he has received:

These awards recognize his significant contributions to various aspects of apiculture science, as well as his dedication to social work, research excellence, and academic leadership. Dr. Stephen Devanesan’s impact spans across different sectors and demonstrates his commitment to advancing knowledge and promoting agricultural development.