Hans News Service Tirupati

Prominentenvironmentalist, photographer and adventure programme organiser Bandaru Balasubrahmanyam, popularly known as ‘Trekking Balu’, has received the prestigious State Biodiversity Award-2026 in the individual category.

The award was announced by Andhra Pradesh Biodiversity Board on the occasion of International Day for Biological Diversity observed on May 22. He was recognised for his outstanding contribution towards environmental protection, nature conservation and biodiversity awareness in the Seshachalam forests and Tirumala hill ranges.

For over three decades, Balu has played a key role in documenting biodiversity in Seshachalam forest region. His work includes identifying and reporting the presence of rare and endangered Golden Gecko species, discovering ancient rock art sites, and promoting environmental awareness among youth through 155 weeks of continuous ‘Sunday Sunrise Treks’.

The State government honoured him for his services in environmental conservation and trekking route exploration carried out in coordination with the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department and local Yanadi tribal communities.