Marine Biological Association of India confers honorary fellowship to Ali Manikfan
Kochi: At 86, thirst for knowledge still continues to fuel Padma awardee Ali Manikfan, prompting him to say that relentless pursuit of learning remains a core motivator in his life.
Ali Manikfan, a multi-talented individual with expertise in marine biology, astronomy, shipbuilding, ecology, agriculture among other fields, said that much of his scientific learning stemmed from his own life experiences.
He was speaking after receiving the prestigious honorary fellowship from the Marine Biological Association of India (MBAI) at a function held at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
According to him, his close observation of nature and his curiosity of understanding the science behind everything shaped his life.
Sharing his journey with marine scientists and staff of the CMFRI on the occasion, Mr. Manikfan said: “At first it was about survival in the unique environment of Lakshadweep. Later, as curiosity about science grew, it evolved into a passion. That passion drove me to learn about the sea, marine life, agriculture, astronomy, shipbuilding engineering and everything else”.
On his association with CMFRI, Ali Manikfan said: “Growing up on the Island, a regular swimmer in the sea, I once encountered a team of scientists from CMFRI during my swim. Interestingly, this chance meeting eventually led to my opportunity to work with the institute”. In 2021, the country honored Ali Manikfan with the Padma Shri.
Dr A Gopalakrishnan, Director of CMFRI and President of MBAI presided over the function. Dr. NGK Pillai, Dr P M Aboobacker, Dr K K C Nair, Dr Rekha J Nair and Dr Grinson George also spoke on the occasion.
