Winfred Thomas Devadas

Born and raised in Chennai, India, Winfred's roots trace back to the southern tip of India near Cape Comorin. His academic journey includes:
- Corly High School – Early education.
- Madras Christian College – Master of Philosophy & Bachelor of Education in Botanical Sciences.

CAREER & CONTRIBUTIONS

Began teaching in schools in the Western Ghats region.
Later moved to a reputed college in Madurai, mentored by Dr. M.R. James.
Played a key role in postgraduate and undergraduate curriculum development.
Introduced biodiversity as a subject in Indian universities.

Collaborated with Dr. Madhav Gadgil, an eminent ecology professor.
Became a part of the Western Ghats Biodiversity Network for college teachers.
Designed and implemented the Community Biodiversity Register, a decision support system to understand conservation and commercialization strategies of ethnic communities.
Worked with the Paliyan indigenous hill tribe, studying traditional ecological knowledge and environmental politics.

Participated in U.S. exchange programs sponsored by Oberlin College, Ohio.
Organized international student exchange programs to promote global understanding of biodiversity conservation.
Collaborated with Peter M. Gardner (Missouri University) on ethnobotanical studies.

Visited Sri Lanka to study palmayra plantations and the livelihood strategies of dependent communities.