AJK Institutions host Book Launch honouring Dr R S Lal Mohan Legacy

AJK Group of Institutions, Navakkarai, organised a book launch ceremony for “Oceans of Knowledge: The Life and Legacy of Dr. R. S. Lal Mohan” and its Tamil version “Perungadal Arivu – Dr. R. S. Lal Mohan: Vazhvum Marabu Perumaiyum” at The Residency Towers, Coimbatore, on April 17.
The books chronicle the life, scientific achievements in marine biology and environmental contributions of Dr. R. S. Lal Mohan, widely regarded as the “Father of Eco Awareness in Kanniyakumari.”
The programme began with an audio-visual presentation, followed by an address by Prof. Dr. Ajeet Kumar Lal Mohan, Founder-Chairman and Secretary of AJK Group of Institutions and author of the book. He shared insights into his father’s life journey, highlighting his contributions to science, environmental protection and social welfare, along with personal reflections on his values and dedication. He also announced plans for a second volume.
The Tamil version of the book was released by Bala Prajapathi Adigalar, Spiritual Leader of the Ayyavazhi faith, with the first copy received by Dr. Nandhini Rangasamy, Chairperson of GRG Educational Institutions. The English version was released by Rev. Dr. L. David Barnabas, Vice President and Secretary of CSI Coimbatore Diocese, and the first copy was received by Dr. David V. Rajan, Founder and Managing Director of Ortho-One Orthopaedic Specialty Centre.
In his address, Bala Prajapathi Adigalar shared his association with Dr. Lal Mohan. Dr. Nandhini Rangasamy highlighted that knowledge was the cornerstone of Dr. Lal Mohan’s vision and praised his commitment to environmental protection.
Rev. Dr. L. David Barnabas noted that the book captures Dr. Lal Mohan’s journey from Nagercoil to becoming a Principal Scientist at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, earning global recognition for his research on dolphins, whales and dugongs. He added that the work also reflects values such as discipline, dedication and humanity.
Dr. David V. Rajan described Dr. Lal Mohan as a symbol of selfless service and unwavering commitment to conservation. Advocate N. Sundaravadivelu emphasised the importance of purposeful living and lifelong learning, while Sujatha Ranjitt recalled his humane qualities and dedication to family and society.
The book documents Dr. Lal Mohan’s scientific work, including rare marine species studies and environmental efforts, along with photographs and field research records.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Bindu Ajeet, Director of AJK Group of Institutions, marking the occasion as a significant step in preserving and promoting the legacy of Dr. R. S. Lal Mohan.