IMPHAL May 22: As in other parts of the world, the International Day for Biological Diversity was observed jointly by Manipur Biodiversity Board and Forest Department under the sponsorship from National Biodiversity Authority Government of India at Manipur Film Development Corporation, Palace Compound today.
The observance held under the theme `Biodiversity for Sustainable Development`™ was graced by Ram Muivah, IAS, Addl. Chief Secretary; P N Prasad, IFS, Chief Wild Life Warden; Prof Dinabandhu Sahoo, Director, IBSD and Dr M Rohinikumar Singh, Ex-Director(Research) CAU as the chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively.
While reminiscing the forest cover and the flora and fauna of the state in his youthful times, Ram Muivah expressed concern on the rampant deforestation which has affected ecological environment.
He stressed on the need to plant more trees so as to reclaim and conserve the rich biodiversity for sustainable development.
Prof Dinabandhu Sahoo noted that the north east India especially Manipur has a fragile eco-system and would not be suitable for setting up of heavy industries.
However, the concerned stakeholders can collectively approach to revise the existing policy and practice to maintain and promote the eco-system and market the exotic places through tourism, he said.
P N Prasad spoke about the importance of conservation of biodiversity while explaining the co-relationship of humankind and nature and how this balance is essential for sustainability of life.
He cited the knowledge of forefathers of accepting this relationship and how nature is indeed worshipped, which the people are now destroying in greed.
Prizes for painting as well as essay competition on biodiversity held in connection with the observance were distributed to its respective winners by the dignitaries. Manipuri singers Pushparani and Naoboy enthralled the gathering with their famous tracks.