Environmentalist Hally War from Meghalaya will be conferred the Padma Shri for his work spanning over five decades in preserving the Khasi tradition of bio-weaving through the nurturing of the iconic living root bridges in the East Khasi Hills. War, a resident of the region, has dedicated more than 50 years to maintaining and promoting the unique bio-engineering practice of guiding the aerial roots of Ficus elastica trees to form sturdy, living bridges across rivers and streams The tradition, passed down through generations of Khasi communities, is considered a sustainable model of indigenous architecture and ecological stewardship. The Living Root Bridges, found primarily in the villages of East Khasi Hills, have gained global recognition for their durability and environmental harmony. Some bridges are over 100 years old and can support dozens of people at once. War’s efforts have been central to documenting, repairing, and training younger community members in the techniques required to grow and maintain the structures.