Conservation, sustainable utilisation of bio-resources stressed
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 22 2024:
Department of Zoology, Manipur University observed International Biodiversity Day on Wednesday with a series of programmes and activities aimed at raising awareness about biodiversity conservation.
The inaugural programme began with a welcome address by Zoology Department associate professor Dr Shivakumar Vijayaraghavalu.
According to a statement issued by Zoology Department, the event was attended by several distinguished guests, including MU School of Life Sciences dean Prof GKNChhettry, ICAR-Direc-torate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (Bhimtal) director Dr Pramod Kumar Pandey, MU Department of Botany head Prof M Damayanti and College Development Council director Prof N Mohilal.
The dignitaries highlighted the importance of conserving and sustainable utilisation of bio-resources, especially given Manipur's location in a biodiversity hotspot.
In connection with the observance, the department organised painting and extempore speech competitions on biodiversity-related themes with participation of students from different departments of the University.
As a part of the observance Directorate of Environment and Climate Change director Dr Tourangbam Brajakumar delivered a lecture on "Climate Change Risks" during the technical session, highlighting impact of climate change with support of scientific data and literature.
Dr Brajakumar sensitised the students about the urgent need for biodiversity conservation and encouraged them to become environmental stewards, advocate conservation efforts, and proactively participate in raising awareness about this critical issue.
Overall, the observance of International Biodiversity Day at Manipur University successfully underscored the importance of protecting and preserving biodiversity, inspiring students and faculty alike to take meaningful action towards environmental conservation, the statement added.
Thoubal Forest Division also observed International Day for Biological Diversity, 2024 on the theme 'Be part of the Plan' at its office complex, here, on Wednesday.
The observance was attended by Thoubal Forest Division Divisional forest officer Dr L Jeeceelee, People for Animal (PFA), Manipur managing trustee Lourembam Bishwajit and Kakching forest range officer Laishram Dinesh Singh as presidium members.
Dr Jeeceelee led in plantation of trees which was carried out as a part of the observance.
Moreover, prizes of the on-the-spot painting competition conducted on May 18 in connection with International Day for Biological Diversity 2024 were distributed.
Khongjom Standard English School student Artina Chingtham bagged the first prize, while Ruda Academy Thoubal students Ningombam Nidhibha Devi and Laishram Sriniavash secured the second and third prize respectively.
Among others, range officer (headquarters) Ningthoujam Deepa, range officer (Thoubal) Dineshchandra Salam and staff members also took part in the programme.