Governor underscores State's rich biodiversity
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 26 2025: Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has underscored the State's rich biodiversity and its immense untapped potential.

The Governor today graced the foundation day celebration of BRIC - Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (BRIC-IBSD) at Takyelpat, Imphal.

BRIC-IBSD is one of the premier biotechnology research institutes in the region, with a mission to promote development and sustainable use of bioresources through biotechnological innovations for socio-economic growth of the region.

Addressing the gathering, Ajay Kumar Bhalla highlighted that the Northeast India is home to some of the world's richest biodiversity, and Manipur, in particular, holds immense untapped potential.

This includes the sustainable utilization of forestbased non-timber products, medicinal plants, aromatic herbs, bamboo, wild edible mushrooms, and insect bioresources.

The Governor noted that this vast natural wealth forms the very canvas upon which IBSD paints its innovative vision - unlocking nature's potential in a sustainable and scientifically grounded manner.

Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India has launched several key initiatives for environmental conservation and sustainable development.

These include the National Water Mission, the National Mission for a Green India, and the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem, he said.

Highlighting the significance of Manipur's handloom and handicraft sector, the Governor emphasized that local artisans and weavers are not only preserving age-old techniques but also innovating with modem designs.

While the intersection of biotechnology and traditional craftsmanship offers exciting possibilities, there is a need to better integrate scientific research into practical applications to drive further progress in this sector, he said.

Ajay Kumar Bhalla also underscored the importance of building linkages between traditional healers and scientific communities.

He stressed the need for benefit-sharing models and the promotion of ethno-entrepreneurship based on medicinal plants and fermented foods.

The Governor also toured the Genome Sequencing Facility at the institute and planted a tree within its campus as a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign.

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