This paper discusses the context and the efforts of M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (M.S.R.F.) in
helping the elected Local Self Governments of a few Grama Panchayaths of Wayanad district of Kerala for
mainstreaming the biodiversity concerns in the local development. This paper builds upon the idea of multi-level approach and processes needed from people to the policy makers for mainstreaming biodiversity. The gaps in
awareness and institutional structures at dffirent levels lo achieve this goal are discussed in this paper. The need for consistent efforts to inculcate biodiversity conservation and sustainable use as a developmental agenda in the minds of elected representatives, rather than an alternative idea away from the routine development processes is emphasized here.