Completed M Sc in Marine Biology from Annamalai University in 1982 and a Ph D from the University of Madras in 1992. Worked with M S Swaminathan Research Foundation for nearly 30 years and retired as Executive Director in 2019.

Well-regarded as a coastal ecologist with over 40 years of experience leading coastal systems research and management programs, projects and professionals. Credited with developing and demonstrating a hydro-ecological approach to restore mangrove wetlands with the participation of the local communities as primary partners, which is being replicated with the support of the MOEFCC, Government of India and State Forest Departments. Integrated Mangrove Fish Farming System is another innovative model developed to enhance the economic stake of the local community in mangrove conservation and management, which is considered a Blue Solution to strengthen the adaptive capacity of the local people to sea level rise and replicated by the UNFCCC.

Provided leadership to interdisciplinary teams in conceptualising, designing, planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating science-based, human-centred, and process-oriented coastal zone management projects.

Worked with various national and international agencies to conserve, restore and sustain mangrove wetlands in all the coastal states of India, as well as in Sri Lanka, Thailand and the Maldives. Honoured by the Thailand Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn by being presented with her state emblem for my work on mangrove conservation and management.