A science writer from Yercaud in Salem district has set a remarkable record by uploading 25,000 public-information images on Wikimedia Commons. Elango, widely known as 'Yercaud' Elango, worked as a botanical assistant with the Botanical Survey of India and retired in 2021. Since November 22, 2014, he has been documenting scientific, botanical, zoological, and archaeological subjects on the platform.
Record Achievement
The Wikimedia Foundation aims to make knowledge and data accessible to the public. Contributors from various regions upload and document images and information sought by users. Elango has achieved the distinction of uploading the highest number of images on Wikimedia by an individual. As of March 31, he had uploaded and documented 25,000 images across 27 subcategories.
Focus on Yercaud Hills
Elango, who has authored more than 300 science articles and 122 science books, told The Times of India that he focused on the biodiversity, environment, nature, and ancient historical monuments of the Yercaud Hills. Approximately 16,000 of the images were taken in Yercaud, including photographs of over 10,000 plants.
Rare Species and Ancient Trees
His Wikimedia uploads include images of more than 200 rare, remarkable, and endangered plant species. He documented old trees in Yercaud, such as a 200-year-old wild mango tree, a 200-year-old naval tree, and a 300-year-old Chola vengai tree, the latter having a circumference of 60 feet. Additionally, he has taken and uploaded photos of animals, snakes, birds, insects, butterflies, and moths.
Recognition and Future Plans
Elango mentioned that he might receive an achievement award during a Wikimedia international conference scheduled to be held in Delhi in the coming months.
