ITANAGAR, Feb 27: The Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department is organizing a two-day Annual Research Seminar-2025 on February 27 and 28, bringing together senior forest officers, researchers, frontline field staff, and conservationists from across the country. The event aims to facilitate discussions on key research developments in forestry, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity protection, providing a platform for experts to share insights and strategies for sustainable environmental management in the state.
The seminar was inaugurated by Wangki Lowang, Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, in the presence of Wanglin Lowangdong, Advisor to the Minister, who attended as the Guest of Honour. The event also saw the participation of N. Tam, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Chief Wildlife Warden, Prabhat Tyagi, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, along with other senior officers and researchers.
During his inaugural address, Wangki Lowang highlighted the importance of integrating traditional knowledge into conservation efforts. He emphasized that the wisdom of local communities is invaluable and should be incorporated into scientific research to strengthen conservation values. He also spoke about the significant role of wildlife, including wild animals, birds, and butterflies, in providing direct and indirect benefits such as pollination and pest control. Stressing the importance of ecotourism as a means of sustainable livelihood for local communities, he urged conservationists to engage with the public in enhancing conservation efforts. He lauded the dedication of the Forest Department, frontline staff, and researchers in safeguarding Arunachal Pradesh’s rich natural heritage and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening conservation policies.
Meanwhile, Wanglin Lowangdong, in his felicitation speech, underscored the growing need for intensive research on climate change, particularly its impact on Arunachal Pradesh’s ecosystems.
As part of the seminar, the first edition of the Green Guardian Award was presented to honour individuals and organizations for their dedicated efforts in conservation and biodiversity protection. Twelve awardees were recognized for their exceptional contributions to safeguarding forests and wildlife in the state. Among them were frontline staff, researchers, and conservationists from different districts, including Sunil Rangmang from Kamlang Tiger Reserve, Tatum Rumdo from Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Tader Raju, RFO from Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Koj Mama, a conservationist from Lower Subansiri District. Other notable awardees included Ipra Makola from Lower Dibang Valley, Vijay Dupit, RFO from Banderdeva Forest Division, and Dodo Perme, FG from D’Ering Wildlife Sanctuary. Additionally, Tada Debia Neckom, Joint Director, Agriculture & Wildlife Conservationist from Keyi Panyor District, and a dedicated Snake Rescue Team comprising Kime Rambia, RFO, Hage Tamang, Niranjan Boro, and Raju Boro were also recognized for their unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.
Earlier, the book ‘Mesmerizing Ecotourism Destinations of Arunachal Pradesh’, authored by N. Tam, PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden was also released. The book, launched by the Minister, showcases the breathtaking ecotourism potential of Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting its pristine landscapes, rich biodiversity, and sustainable tourism opportunities. It aims to promote responsible tourism while ensuring ecological preservation.
