Shillong, May 23: The North East Society for Agroecology Support (NESFAS), in collaboration with the Meghalaya Biodiversity Board (MBB), commemorated the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) at Karukol community, South Garo Hills.
The event was centred on the theme, “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” that brought together various stakeholders, including administrators, forest conservation experts, community leaders and the youth to address the urgent need for protecting regional ecosystems.
Chengreng D. Sangma, the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Baghmara and Siju Block, delivered an address linking biological survival to the preservation of indigenous culture. He emphasised that biodiversity loss is often aggravated by the systemic loss of indigenous languages, remarking that when communities forget traditional names of plants, they also lose significant knowledge about their medicinal properties and ecological significance.
Bethuel G. Momin, the traditional chief of Rongchekgre, warned against an anthropocentric view of biodiversity management, indicating that human wellness relies on a balanced ecosystem.
Betroy M. Sangma, Principal of Karukol Higher Secondary School, inspired youth by invoking the philosophy of former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. He urged each student to plant and nurture at least one tree, reinforcing their personal responsibility towards environmental stewardship.
An exhibition showcasing indigenous wild edible plants, forest fruits, and rare medicinal flora was also held, which served as an interactive masterclass on traditional knowledge management:
The technical session was facilitated by Lianchi Sangma, Project Assistant at MBB (Garo Hills division). The workshop focused on empowering committee members with the strategic framework, documentation methodologies, and statutory parameters required to maintain accurate People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs), ensuring local traditional knowledge is legally protected and ecologically monitored.
