The mixed ligand ternary complexes of cerium(III) with general formula [Ce(1N2N)2•(L)•2H2O] where (1N2N) = 1-nitroso-2-naphthol primary ligand and L = different amino acids (L-valine, L-serine and L-isoleucine) as a secondary ligands have been prepared and characterized by IR, UV-visible spectroscopic technique, TG-DTA studies, elemental analysis, magnetic and molar conductance studies. The magnetic susceptibility study indicates paramagnetic nature of the complexes. The electrical conductance values of all the complexes shows their non-electrolytic nature. The metal-ligand bonding through nitrogen and oxygen atom was confirmed by FT-IR spectral studies. The antimicrobial activities of the compounds have been tested against S. aureus, C. diphtheria, E. coli and S. typhi. These complexes show better antibacterial activity than free ligand.