Consultation on biodiversity conservation held in Imphal

Dr. Soibam Rebika speaking during the consultation for the revision of state biodiversity action plan in Imphal, on Friday.

• IMPHAL — Students from 26 colleges and universities in Manipur identified key challenges towards conservation efforts, in alignment with national and global biodiversity conservation goals, during a day-long consultation for the revision of state biodiversity action plan in Imphal, on Friday.
• 
  
• The consultation for revision of state biodiversity strategy and action plan was organised by the Foundation for Ecological Security (FES), in partnership with the Department of Zoology, Dhanamanjuri University, Imphal, and Manipur Biodiversity Board.
• 
  
• “The discussions emphasised research-driven and technology-based solutions to facilitate grassroots implementation of the State Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan,” said the workshop coordinator, Dr. Yumnam Lokeshwor.
• 
  
• “The discussions centred on the vital role of youth in addressing local and regional biodiversity challenges, advocating for policy changes, and utilizing technology for conservation efforts.”
• 
  
• Participants highlighted the need for governmental and institutional support, innovative solutions, and digital platforms to enhance awareness and advocacy initiatives, he added.
• 
  
• The workshop provided a collaborative platform for students and youth to actively participate in developing conservation strategies and actions to protect Manipur’s rich biodiversity. Besides, it reinforced the importance of youth-led conservation efforts and sustainable biodiversity management.
• 
  
• The day's initiative is being undertaken as part of the Indo-German Bilateral Cooperation Project, ‘Protection and sustainable management of aquatic resources in the North-Eastern Himalayan Region of India.’
• 
  
• In the inaugural session, Principal of DMC Science, Prof. M Bhubaneshori Devi; Dean (School of Life Sciences), Prof. L Hemchandra Singh, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Dr. Soibam Rebika and head of the Department of Zoology (DMU), Prof .I Linthoingambi Devi, encouraged the students to voice their perspectives on biodiversity conservation.