He is known for his revisionary work on the families of Naticidae and Nassaridae, having several new distributional records of animal species. Dr. Ramakrishna has trained a number of students on taxonomy and conservation of molluscs. Popularising the science of taxonomy of Indian Molluscs as the Coordinator of the All India Coordinated Project on Taxonomy is yet another dimension of his work.

His works have inspired young scientists to take of taxonomic studies and have also attracted other taxonomists to pursue on this difficult but fascinating group of animals- the Molluscs, which are key components of the natural ecosystems.

Dr. Ramakrishna is the Fellow of Zoological Society as well as recipient of E.P.Odum gold Medal of the International Society of Ecological communications.

The Janaki Ammal Award on Animal taxonomy is bestowed upon him in recognition of his contributions to the subject of taxonomy of Indian molluscs in Particular and popularization of taxonomy publication, extension and research.

Taxonomy is the science of identification, classification and naming of organisms. Taxonomic work involves study of morphological characteristics and phylogenetic relationship of organisms which is essential for applied biological sciences including which is essential for applied biological sciences including medicine, agriculture, forestry and fisheries. Current requirements of taxonomic work and available expertise and studies indicate a dire need to encourage excellence and motivate experts to do work in hitherto neglected groups of organisms e.g. microbes, lower groups of plants, animals, etc. The challenge is quite serious because while on the one hand the existing expertise is ageing and retiring, on the other not many young scholars are opting for studies in taxonomy.

In order to encourage work of excellence in taxonomy and also to encourage young students and scholars to work in this science, the Ministry has instituted a National Award in Taxonomy, named after the late Prof. E.K. Janki Ammal. The award has been approved by the Minister of Environment and Forests, Prime Minister and the President of India. Late Prof. Janaki Ammal did taxonomic work of outstanding merit and excellence particularly in the area of cytotaxonomy and was a source of inspiration to many young scientists. She devoted her entire life to taxonomic work. She was associated with the Botanical Survey of India also in the capacity of Director, Central Botanical Laboratory, BSI, and Allahabad.

This award carries a cash prize, medallion and a citation. It has been decided to have two awards one each for Plant Taxonomy and Animal Taxonomy w.e.f. the year 2005.