The award has been instituted by Sree Chithira Thirunal Trust in memory of Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last and most popular Maharaja of the erstwhile Travancore Royal family, and carries a citation with a cash award of Rs one lakh.
Speaking on the occasion, Ansari said the award was an apt recognition of Sreenivasan's multi-faceted talents and years of public service.
Ansari also lauded Balarama Varma's various progressive initiatives such as temple entry proclamation, setting up of educational institutions, undertakings for power generation and starting transport service in public sector.
Governor Justice (ret) P Sathasivam, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and State Health Minister V S Sivakumar were among those present on the occasion.