ITANAGAR, Mar 7: A three-day Pilot Capacity Building Programme for Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) of Arunachal Pradesh successfully concluded on March 7, 2025, at the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Itanagar. Organized by the EIACP Centre on Biodiversity (Fauna), ZSI Kolkata, and the Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre (APRC), ZSI Itanagar, in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Biodiversity Board (APBB), the programme was conducted under the guidelines of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
With around 40 participants from various districts, the initiative aimed to enhance their knowledge and skills in implementing the Biological Diversity Act (2002) and in safeguarding the state’s rich biodiversity. The inaugural session was led by distinguished experts, including Dr. K.A. Ahmed Kabeer, Dr. Devendra Kumar, Dr. S.D. Gurumayum, and Dr. Bamin Yakang, along with other prominent researchers from ZSI and the Botanical Survey of India.
Throughout the three-day programme, participants engaged in discussions on topics such as natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, insect bio-prospecting, agro-biodiversity for marginalized communities, traditional knowledge systems, sustainable livelihoods, medicinal plants, and strategies for addressing human-wildlife conflicts. Experts highlighted the role of biodiversity in economic development, the importance of indigenous species, and the need for citizen science initiatives to promote conservation efforts.
As part of the hands-on learning experience, participants were taken on field visits to the Itanagar Biological Park and Bamboo Technology Park in Poma Village, where they explored practical applications of biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood practices. These visits provided insights into the role of conservation efforts in promoting long-term ecological balance and economic sustainability.
On the final day, a panel discussion allowed participants to share their learnings and perspectives on biodiversity conservation. The valedictory session, attended by officials from ZSI Kolkata, ZSI Itanagar, APBB, and APSMPB, was graced by Shri Dohu Robin, IFS, Director of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, as the special guest. Participation certificates were distributed to all BMC members, recognizing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
This initiative marks a crucial step in strengthening the capacity of local communities to manage and protect Arunachal Pradesh’s unique biodiversity. By fostering collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders, the programme aims to create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the state.
