Thiruvananthapuram: Renowned poet Sugathakumari received this year's MVR Award from former chief minister Oommen Chandy. The award, which includes a cash prize of Rs 25,000 and a sculpture, was instituted in memory of M V Raghavan, former minister and founder of Communist Marxist Party (CMP).

The award was handed over to Sugathakumari at her residence in Nandavanam on Saturday. CMP general secretary C P John, assistant secretary M P Saju, Thiruvananthapuram district secretary M R Manoj, M V Raghavan's son M V Gireesh Kumar and others attended the function.

A poet, social worker and environmental activist, Sugathakumari is the recipient of many honours including Padma Shri, Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award, Odakkuzhal Award, Vayalar Award, Vallathol Award, Ezhuthachan Award, Mathrubhumi Literary Award among others.