International Biological Diversity Day observed

Imphal, May 23 : As in other parts of the world, the International Biological Diversity Day was observed under the aegis of Biodiversity, Ecology and Environment Network (BEENET) at Kangla Hall here today under the sponsorship of Environment and Ecology Wing, Government of Manipur.

The observance was graced by MU Pro Vice-Chancellor H Nandakumar Sharma, BEENET Manipur president Dr Kh Shamungou and Senior Scientific Officer of Environment and Ecology Wing Dr M Homeshor as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

As a part of the observance, a one day exhibition cum competition on indigenous foodgrains and medicinal plants was also organised at the same venue.

The competition was attended by a number of students belonging to 17 schools based in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Churachandpur and Chandel districts.

Paradise English School Thoubal, Suraj Real Flower School Kongba and John English School Keishamthong won first, second and third positions of the exhibition cum competition respectively in Indigenous Foodgrains category.

In medicinal plants category, Suraj Real Flower School, BIM Higher Secondary School and City Montessori Higher Secondary School won first, second and third positions respectively.

Speaking at the occasion of International Biological Diversity Day observed under the theme "Invasive Alien Species', Pro VC Prof H Nandakumar ovserved that the environment of Manipur has undergone drastic changes over the last 30 years.

With the disappearance of several wetlands, climatic conditions have also been altered noticeably.

Under such circumstances, many alien species have been invading the land thereby posing a serious threat to the indigenous species of the land, said Prof Nandakumar while noting that the situation called for effective protective measures.

M Homeshor of Environment and Ecology Wing observed that excessive dependence on agriculture for the livelihood of people was also a factor contributing to the invasion of alien species in Manipur.

The changing scenario needs a minute study on the possible effects and implications on the biodiversity of Manipur.

Observing that policies and programmes being pursued by the Government have destroyed a number of wetlands, Homeshor noted the need of a coordinated analysis on the part of the academicians.

Any slackness or delay to tackle the matter would only aggravate the situation in which all hope of conserving biological diversity is lost.

A souvenir based on biological diversity and produced by BEENET was also released on the occasion.