The programme was organised by Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy, Deshabhakta N S Kille Foundation and Badiadka Tuluvere Ayano.
Scholar Khandige Shyam Bhat presented the award to Dr Puninchittaya. The award comprised of Rs 10,000 cash and mementoes.
Inaugurating the ceremony, writer Erya Lakshminarayan Alva said the contribution of Dr Puninchittaya towards Tulu lexicon and language has been an asset. “The researches of him would be a leading light for the future generations. Even late Kille has been a memorable personality for his service to the political, social, cultural, journalism and Yakshagana fields,” he said.
Kerala Tulu Sahitya Academy member Malar Jayaram Rai presided. Madhukar Rai Korekkana, C Sanjeev Rai, Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy Registrar Chandrahas Rai, writer Ravunni, Sudhakar Hegde, Chandrahas Ballal, Sarapady Ashok Shetty, V Balakrishna Shetty, Rajesh Alva, Kille Award Committee President Kadamajalu Subhash Rai were present.