He is noted for his autodidactic research skills in the marine, ecology, and agricultural fields, and for promoting a life of simplicity. The award recognises his work in Marine biology, Ecology, Cosmology, Shipbuilding, and scholarship in Islamic text. He is versed in 14 languages. Abudefduf also known as the sergeant-majors, a genus of fish in the family Pomacentridae, was discovered by Ali Manikfan. Kulasegaram Sanchayan brings Ali Manikfan‘s story.
A versatile genius with no formal education receives Padma Shri
Ali Manikfan. Padma Shri Award, A fish carrying his name, and a Ship he built without any metal. Source: Ali Manikfan
Story on Muraiduganduar Ali Manikfan, an 82-year-old school dropout, who received the fourth highest civilian award of Padma Shri in late January (awarded by The Government of India, and similar to Order of Australia awards).
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